scrappinlaurie

I was just wondering if there is anything you can put on the incisions. Mine are very itchy. I am 6 days post op RNY. I was hoping there was some sort of cream or something I could put on to help the itching.

And also I am getting a little concerned about not having a BM yet. I have been passing gas since about the 3rd day. I did have a complication of some bleeding at the stomach/intestine site right at the end of my surgery which caused me to have to have a one pint blood transfusion and one extra day in the hospital. No one every said anything about BMs except that I might see some blood in it possibly from the complications. But no one every said when the first one might happen?

Thanks for any help you can give me.

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Dr. Callery

Incisions are often itchy for a few days. One should be concerned if they become red, tender, or thickened. These signs could indicate infection. Redness around the incisions early on can be due to trauma from the laparoscopic equipment, bruising, or irritation or allergy to adhesives or glue applied to the incisions.

It's good to keep incisions clean. You can shower and run the water over them. Not need to use soap. Pat dry. Some people use lotions or ointments such as aloe, or A & D, but I don't think they are of more than placebo value. If there is an adhesive allergic reaction, 1% hydrocortisone cream can be helpful. But HC cream could make an infection worse.

If the incision is really bugging you, drop by your surgeon's office and have him/her or the nurse take a look at it.

Second question. If you haven't had a BM by 6 days, you should consult with your surgeon. The good news is that your passing some gas, and the delay may be due to the paralyzing effect of narcotic pain medication. However, if you've had a bleed, there could be other complications occurring that need attention.

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