Get your health question answered instantly from our pool of 18000+ doctors from over 80 specialties
159 Doctors Online

By proceeding, I accept the Terms and Conditions

Dr. Andrew Rynne
MD
Dr. Andrew Rynne

Family Physician

Exp 50 years

HCM Blog Instant Access to Doctors
HCM BlogQuestions Answered
HCM Blog Satisfaction

What Causes Intramedullary Rod Leg Swelling And Pain?

hi my boyfriend has a rod in his leg. he broke his leg when he was 14 and now he is 23. his leg where the rod is, is like puffy and nasty to look at and for the past year he has complained that it hurts so much and he cant stand very long and trouble getting up and sitting. he cant sleep and i dont know what to do.
Mon, 18 Aug 2014
Report Abuse
Orthopaedic Surgeon, Joint Replacement 's  Response
It can be due to loosening of road or infection. I would suggest you to get a repeat x ray of the leg to confirm the cause of the swelling and pain. If there is any loosening or bone damage then I would suggest you to get this rod removed. I would also suggest you to get ESR, CRP to confirm if there is any infection. Then also he will need antibiotics and implant removal. You have to do it early as this rod can cause deep infection in bone called as osteomyellitis and then there can be multiple complications. So do not delay this treatment.
I find this answer helpful

1 Doctor agrees with this answer


Note: For further queries, consult a joint and bone specialist, an Orthopaedic surgeon. Book a Call now.
Disclaimer: These answers are for your information only and not intended to replace your relationship with your treating physician.
This is a short, free answer. For a more detailed, immediate answer, try our premium service [Sample answer]
Share on
 

Related questions you may be interested in


Loading Online Doctors....
What Causes Intramedullary Rod Leg Swelling And Pain?

It can be due to loosening of road or infection. I would suggest you to get a repeat x ray of the leg to confirm the cause of the swelling and pain. If there is any loosening or bone damage then I would suggest you to get this rod removed. I would also suggest you to get ESR, CRP to confirm if there is any infection. Then also he will need antibiotics and implant removal. You have to do it early as this rod can cause deep infection in bone called as osteomyellitis and then there can be multiple complications. So do not delay this treatment.