Postoperative fever

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Postoperative Fever

Postoperative fever (pronunciation: post-op-er-a-tive fee-ver) is a common medical condition that occurs after a patient has undergone a surgical procedure.

Etymology

The term "postoperative" is derived from the Latin words "post", meaning "after", and "operare", meaning "to work". The term "fever" is derived from the Latin word "febris", meaning "heat".

Definition

Postoperative fever is defined as a body temperature of 38 degrees Celsius (100.4 degrees Fahrenheit) or higher that occurs after a patient has undergone surgery. It is a common occurrence, especially within the first 48 hours after surgery.

Causes

The most common causes of postoperative fever include:

  • Infection: This can occur at the site of surgery or elsewhere in the body.
  • Inflammation: This is a normal response to surgery and can cause a mild fever.
  • Blood clots: These can form in the legs or lungs after surgery, causing a fever.
  • Medication reactions: Some medications can cause a fever as a side effect.

Diagnosis

Diagnosis of postoperative fever involves a thorough medical history and physical examination, as well as various tests such as blood tests, urine tests, and imaging studies.

Treatment

Treatment of postoperative fever depends on the underlying cause. It may involve antibiotics for infection, anti-inflammatory drugs for inflammation, anticoagulants for blood clots, or changes in medication if a drug reaction is suspected.

Related Terms

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