Wound openings - ThinnerTimes

JimJ · 09-24-2005, 09:39 AM

Has anyone else here had post op wound openings?
I have two 1 to 1.5 inch openings where fluids were built up under the incession. One of them is directly below the sternam. That one was caused by a large hematoma. They now have me on a wound vac to help with healing. It has been almost 4 weeks since surgery and I'm still in quite a bit of pain. The doctors say that it's probably caused by the openings but they are discontinuing the pain meds to make sure I dont' get addicted.

My main question is how long does it take for the pain to go away? Some days are almost as bad as right after surgery!

lealphachienne · 09-24-2005, 10:40 AM

As long as there's still healing to be done, the pain may accompany it. It will take several more weeks for the wounds to close fully.

tami b · 09-24-2005, 10:41 AM

Oh my gosh! I had my surgery 4 wks ago yesterday and am almost completely healed. I feel so bad for you. I'm sure the continued pain is from your openings so I couldn't tell you how much longer it will last. I have some minor tenderness still on my left side, but no pain. Hang in there and hopefully the wound vac will help.

LizardQueen · 09-24-2005, 11:18 AM

Follow what the doc says as closely as possible. Try some extra strength tylenol for pain but if that doesn't help just call and tell the doc you can't handle it. I understand why they want to be cautious but you also shouldn't have to be in pain needlessly. I'll keep you in my prayers!

JimJ · 09-24-2005, 01:06 PM

Thank you all. The pain is from the openings. It starts at the top opening and runs down the right rib cage. The liver is swolen and painful. I'm looking forward to pain free so I can start excercising. I have to much desire to loose to sit here. I'm at 23 lbs as of yesterday. That's 1 pound a day average.

Thanks again for your encouragement