Postoperative pedal edema

Careful preoperative evaluation and precise surgical technique are important in the prevention of postoperative edema, which can alter surgical results functionally or cosmetically. If the lymphatics become occluded or injured, interstitial fluid protein concentration increases, and edema will probably result. Even mild or moderate edema may prolong healing time, and if edema persists for several weeks or months, recurrent or severe edema may result.