Go through these in order and stop at the first one that applies. If you are reading this for someone else, answer for them.
1
Is any of this happening now?
Call 911
Call emergency services for sudden shortness of breath, chest pain, coughing blood, fainting, or a foot that suddenly becomes cold, pale or blue.
Other emergency signs, for anyone
Someone who is struggling to breathe, gasping, choking, or cannot get words out
Someone who has chest pain, tightness or pressure lasting more than a few minutes
Someone who has sudden weakness or drooping on one side of the face or body, slurred speech, or sudden confusion
Someone who is unconscious, or cannot be woken
Someone who is bleeding heavily and it will not stop with firm pressure
Someone who has had a seizure that will not stop, or does not wake up afterwards
Someone who has lips or skin that look pale, blue, grey or blotchy
Someone who you believe has taken an overdose or swallowed something poisonous
2
Is any of this happening?
Be seen today
Contact your surgical team sooner if pain or swelling is worsening rather than gradually settling.
Seek urgent medical advice for fever, increasing wound redness, pus-like drainage, uncontrolled bleeding, severe pain, new calf swelling or difficulty moving your toes.
And for anyone, someone who:
has a wound that is hot, spreading red, or leaking pus
3
Does any of this apply?
Book an appointment
Routine soreness, bruising and mild swelling can be discussed at your planned follow-up.
Every sign above is quoted from the sofidex article on Knee microfracture surgery. If you are not sure, err upward — it is always reasonable to be checked.