What could a temperature above 38°C 4-5 days post-operation signify?

A temperature above 38°C several days after surgery often indicates a response that is concerning for potential infection or sepsis.

In the context of post-operative care, a slight increase in temperature can be a common reaction as the body mounts an immune response to trauma or surgical stress. However, when a temperature exceeds 38°C and persists 4-5 days after the procedure, it may signal that the body is fighting off an infection that could have developed at the surgical site or elsewhere. It is essential to monitor such signs closely, as untreated infections can progress to sepsis, which is a serious and potentially life-threatening condition.

A mild reaction to anesthesia typically occurs shortly after surgery and does not generally present as a sustained fever days later. Likewise, an allergy to medication usually manifests as skin reactions or respiratory distress rather than fever alone. Therefore, while some increase in temperature can be expected, the persistence of a high temperature necessitates further investigation to rule out the possibility of an underlying infection or sepsis.