Diagnosis of the underlying cause
In order to find the cause of fever after an operation, a detailed anamnesis is necessary first. During this interview, questions are clarified, such as whether there were any major blood transfusions during the operation. A blood and urine sample are other important diagnostic tools.
Inflammation parameters and blood cultures can reveal bacterial infections, for example. Depending on the procedure, imaging techniques may be used. An ultrasound examination is painless and can be performed quickly.
An abscess caused by surgery, for example, can be well visualized. If pneumonia is suspected, an X-ray of the chest can confirm the suspicion. If an anastomosis is suspected (leaking connections between anatomical structures), a CT (computer tomogram) is useful.
The last possible means is a renewed surgical opening of the surgical site, the so-called surgical exploration. A blood sample is an important method for clarifying the cause of postoperative fever. The inflammation markers CRP (C-reactive protein), BSG (blood sedimentation rate) and leukocytes are determined.
The blood count can reveal a bacterial or viral infection. Other possible causes such as thrombosis or blood poisoning can also be detected. An ultrasound examination is painless and can be used in many ways.
For example, one can ultrasound the abdomen to check after the operation whether that is the cause of the fever. The ultrasound device can show increased water retention and air. It is a good diagnostic tool that works without radiation and is therefore neither harmful nor painful for the patient.
MRI (magnetic resonance imaging, magnetic resonance imaging) is an imaging procedure that can examine various parts of the body, joints and organs. It can also be used to visualize organs that are located in the depths of the body. The MRI device works with radio wave impulses. This means that no dangerous rays are used, as in X-rays or CT. Magnetic resonance imaging is a very good, harmless examination method to look for the cause of fever if the surgical area is larger or deeper in the body.
