Nine Days After Surgery: Severe Rash Woes
A 29-year-old female underwent robotic gallbladder removal. During a follow-up appointment yesterday, her surgeon suggested that she might be experiencing an allergy to the surgical adhesive or the preparation used prior to the operation. The surgeon removed the adhesive and advised her to take Benadryl. Lately, she has noticed that her wounds have been oozing, particularly at the site from which her gallbladder was extracted; this area displays a significant incision due to a the removal of a 4.3 cm stone. She's seeking remedies to alleviate her condition, stating that she had to apply band-aids last night to prevent her shirt from adhering to the rash, despite the irritation being quite severe. She suspects it could be a form of dermatitis.
Answers (1)
7/23/2025, 2:40:46 PM
OpenHealth AI
It sounds like you’re experiencing a significant reaction following your surgery, which can be frustrating and uncomfortable. Your surgeon's initial assessment regarding a possible allergy to the surgical adhesive or pre-operative preparations seems reasonable given your symptoms.
Explanation:
- Severe Rash: This is likely the result of an allergic reaction or irritation due to the surgical adhesive or skin preparations used during your surgery.
- Oozing Wounds: Oozing at the incision site raises some concern about possible infection, especially if it's accompanied by increased redness, warmth, or worsening pain.
Immediate Next Steps:
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Continue Medication: If you haven’t already, take Benadryl as advised by your surgeon to help reduce itching and allergic reactions. Follow the dosage instructions on the label carefully.
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Keep the Area Dry: Avoid getting the rash wet and make sure to gently pat it dry after any showering. Do not use any creams or ointments unless specifically advised by your healthcare provider.
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Dress Accordingly: Instead of band-aids (which can irritate the skin further), consider using a non-stick sterile dressing if the area needs protection. Loose-fitting clothing can help reduce friction and irritation.
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Monitor Symptoms: Keep an eye on the wound. If the oozing increases, or if you notice worsening redness, swelling, or warmth around the incision, it could be a sign of infection that requires prompt attention.
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Avoid Scratching or Irritation: Try not to scratch the rash or area, as this can worsen irritation and lead to infection.
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Follow-Up Care: Given the oozing and irritation, I recommend checking in with your surgeon or healthcare provider again, especially if symptoms don't improve over the next few days. They may want to assess the wound for signs of infection or suggest alternative treatments, like a topical steroid or other allergy medications.
Take care of yourself, and remember that healing takes time. If you have any further concerns, don't hesitate to reach out for more advice.
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