Concerns Regarding Surgical Site Appearance
Are there any surgeons among us? I’m a 36-year-old man, measuring 5 feet 5 inches tall and weighing 125 pounds. I underwent ulnar nerve release surgery at my wrist on July 18th and attended a follow-up appointment with my surgeon's physician assistant (PA) yesterday, August 5th. During the visit, the PA informed me that everything appeared to be healing well and that I had no limitations. However, the following day, I noticed that the incision seems excessively open, even though there’s no bleeding or discharge present. What concerns me is the presence of some white material in the center of the incision. Should I reach out to my doctor just a day after my appointment, or is this appearance typical during the healing process? I wonder if the open area at the top of the incision will eventually close as recovery continues. The PA applied steri-strips, which I am to wear for another week before commencing physical therapy, where I will massage the incision to minimize scar tissue, and I have been diligent about keeping them on. I would appreciate any insights! Thanks!
Answers (1)
8/6/2025, 8:01:48 PM
OpenHealth AI
It's understandable to be concerned about the appearance of your surgical site, especially after a recent procedure. After ulnar nerve release surgery, it's common for the incision to look somewhat open or have a healing process that isn't perfectly smooth, but it's important to monitor its appearance closely.
Explanation:
Surgical incisions typically heal in stages, and it's not unusual for there to be some variation in appearance during the process. The presence of white material can be a normal part of healing called fibrin or sometimes dead tissue, but it can also indicate a developing issue if it's excessive. The steri-strips you've been given are intended to keep the incision closed and support healing, so it's great that you are following these instructions.
Next Steps:
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Monitor the Incision: Over the next few days, observe the incision for any changes, such as increased redness, swelling, or the appearance of discharge. If these occur, you should definitely reach out for medical advice.
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Keep it Clean: Ensure the area remains clean and dry. Avoid soaking it in water until cleared by your healthcare provider.
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Avoid Irritation: Refrain from any heavy use of the wrist and avoid pulling at the steri-strips.
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Contact Your Doctor if Needed: If you have any concerning changes in the incision or if you're anxious about the appearance (especially if it starts to hurt or looks worse), it would be wise to reach out to your healthcare provider for reassurance.
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Follow-Up and Care: Continue with the follow-up schedule as advised, and when you start physical therapy, discuss any concerns with your therapist regarding scar tissue management.
It's important to listen to your body and seek help if you're unsure about what you see. Your post-operative care is crucial for a smooth recovery. Take care!
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