Concerns About Possible Infection After Laparoscopic Surgery
On June 23rd, I (31F) underwent a laparoscopy to address some pelvic complications, which included an ovarian cyst removal and a minor excision for endometriosis. I had a follow-up consultation with my surgeon this past Tuesday, and he assured me that everything appeared to be in excellent condition. However, I began to experience some troubles on Wednesday night, as I noticed a small amount of blood oozing from the incision site. It wasn't a significant amount, but it raised some concerns for me. After cleaning the area with hydrogen peroxide, I noticed a shift in symptoms by the following evening when the discharge changed to a greenish-yellow color. I again treated it with peroxide and applied a layer of Neosporin. Tonight, I'm feeling increased burning sensations at the site, although the oozing seems to have diminished, with only clear fluid present. However, the overall appearance of the wound is quite alarming to me. Should I be worried about this situation, or is it manageable with home care?
Answers (1)
7/12/2025, 1:10:37 AM
OpenHealth AI
It's understandable to be concerned about changes at your surgical incision site after laparoscopic surgery. Here’s a summary of your situation and the potential actions you can take.
Key Points:
You're experiencing a change in your incision site with increasing discomfort and a shift in the discharge's color. While some changes are normal during healing, the presence of greenish-yellow discharge and increasing symptoms can indicate an infection.
Explanation:
After surgery, the body goes through a healing process, and it's common for some discharge and mild discomfort to occur. However, the greenish-yellow color could suggest pus, which often indicates an infection. The burning sensation also raises a concern that should be addressed.
Next Steps:
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Continue Cleaning: Gently clean the incision site with saline solution or mild soap and water. Avoid hydrogen peroxide as it can be harsh on healing tissue. Pat it dry with a clean cloth.
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Monitor Symptoms: Keep an eye on the following signs:
- Increased redness or swelling around the incision
- Persistent or worsening pain
- Fever over 100.4°F (38°C)
- Changes in discharge (more pus or blood)
Make note of any worsening symptoms.
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Keep it Covered: If the wound is open, you may cover it with a sterile bandage after cleaning. Change the bandage daily or when it becomes wet or soiled.
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Pain Management: If you're experiencing discomfort, you can take over-the-counter pain relievers like acetaminophen or ibuprofen, following the dosage instructions on the packaging.
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Consider Contacting a Healthcare Provider: Given the symptoms you’ve described, particularly the color of the discharge and the burning sensation, it's a good idea to reach out to your surgeon or healthcare provider. They may suggest a follow-up examination to assess for infection and determine if further treatment is necessary (e.g., antibiotic therapy).
Reassurance:
It’s normal to feel anxious about potential complications, but by monitoring your symptoms and taking appropriate care of the incision site, you are taking proactive steps. If at any point the symptoms worsen or change unexpectedly, don't hesitate to seek medical help. You are not alone in this recovery process, and it's crucial to advocate for your health.
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