Is Reddish Purple Discoloration With Ankle Swelling A Serious Concern Post A Knee Surgery Few Months Back?

Posted on Fri, 27 Jul 2018

Medically reviewed by Ask A Doctor - 24x7 Medical Review Team

Fri, 27 Jul 2018 Answered on

Wed, 9 Mar 2022 Last reviewed on

Question : okay My mom had knee surgery four month ago but her ankle is swollen really bad and is a reddish purple

Answered by Dr. Lekshmi Rita Venugopal (1 hour later)

Brief Answer:
Rule out infection

Detailed Answer:

Hello,

The ankle swelling is likely to be unrelated to knee surgery. Sudden swelling, skin discoloration are concerning for possible joint infection. It can also be a superficial skin infection called cellulitis.
Blood culture and Xray of ankle joint are needed at this point. It is also important to initiate antibiotics early. So please be advised to follow up with the emergency room.

Hope this answers your question
Please let me know if you need further clarification
Regards,
Dr. Lekshmi

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Raju A.T