Had Carpel Tunnel Surgery And Side Of The Healing Wound Has Started Going Red And Swollen. Infection?

Posted on Tue, 4 Jun 2013

Medically reviewed by Ask A Doctor - 24x7 Medical Review Team

Tue, 4 Jun 2013 Answered on

Tue, 2 Jul 2013 Last reviewed on

Question : I had carpel tunnel surgery 2 weeks ago and this evening around the side of the healing wound it has started going red and slightly swollen and looks like a slight lump at the wrist end, does it sound like its infected?

Answered by Dr. Kerry Pottinger (31 minutes later)

Hi,

Thank you for your query.

There is a possibility that the wound is infected but from your description I cannot be sure. It may just be inflamed.

Signs of infection would be increasing tenderness over the area, weeping or pus from the wound, a fever or generally feeling unwell. Swelling and redness only may occur during the healing phase sometimes.

Infection in this area could cause the wound to fail to heal adequately. I would recommend you visit your doctor who will be able to assess the wound more thoroughly and advise you.

I hope this information had been helpful. If you have any further questions please do not hesitate to contact me.

Dr K A Pottinger MBChB

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Raju A.T