Concerns Regarding Fluid Accumulation from Surgical Site
At the age of 26, I underwent a laparoscopic appendectomy 16 days ago. Five days post-operation, I took a shower and, unfortunately, a few droplets of water made their way into one of the incisions. I failed to dry or change the dressing afterward, leading to the next day's discovery of yellowish fluid oozing from that incision. My surgeon previously removed staples from the other two incisions, which had closed up nicely and showed no issues. However, the third incision, from which the fluid is still leaking, remains a concern. Currently, there is no indication of fever, redness, pain, or pus associated with the incision—only this yellow fluid, which I understand to be serous in nature. My doctor has been changing the dressings daily, yet I continue to see 1-2 drops of fluid each day. Recently, my surgeon opened one of the staples from this problematic incision to facilitate healing by secondary intention, resulting in an open incision approximately 10mm in size. Today marks the 16th day since my surgery, and I am quite disheartened by the ongoing fluid discharge. I find myself wondering when this will cease and when I can expect the incision to fully heal. Is this method of leaving the incision open the appropriate approach, or should I consider seeking a second opinion? It has been 10 days since this incision was left open, and I am concerned about potential infection risks, despite the daily gauze cover we apply to it.
Answers (1)
8/15/2025, 10:40:59 AM
OpenHealth AI
It’s understandable to feel anxious about fluid accumulation and the healing process after your appendectomy, especially when you're seeing prolonged discharge from the incision. Let’s break this down into key points and actions to help address your concerns.
Main Points
- Fluid Discharge: The yellow fluid you describe is likely serous fluid, which can be normal during the healing process, especially in an area that has been left open for healing.
- Current Care Approach: Leaving the incision open can promote drainage and healing in certain situations, but ongoing fluid discharge can indeed be disheartening.
Explanation
After a surgical procedure like an appendectomy, it is not uncommon for some fluid to accumulate as the body heals. Your surgeon's decision to leave the incision open after removing the staples suggests they believe that allowing the wound to drain will promote better healing. This method, known as healing by secondary intention, can take longer than primary closure but is sometimes the best option to prevent complications.
Given that you are not showing signs of infection, such as increased redness, pain, swelling, or fever, it’s reassuring. However, the persistence of fluid discharge for over a week may warrant further evaluation to ensure that all aspects of healing are progressing as they should.
Next Steps
- Observation: Continue monitoring the incision for changes in color, increase in pain, or other signs of infection.
- Daily Care: Keep the area clean and continue changing the dressing as directed. Ensure that any fluid is being absorbed without irritation to the skin.
- Follow-Up: Schedule a follow-up appointment with your surgeon to discuss your concerns about the ongoing fluid and healing process. It’s okay to ask whether a second opinion might be appropriate or if any other interventions could speed up healing.
- Document Changes: Keep a record of daily discharge amounts, color, and any other symptoms to share with your surgeon. This information will help in assessing your healing.
Your feelings are completely valid, and it’s important to voice your concerns with your healthcare team. You’re taking proactive steps for your health, which is commendable. If anything worsens or you have additional questions, don’t hesitate to seek further advice.
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