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What Causes Black Discoloration At The Incision Site After Treating Broken Tibia?
Question: My husband had major surgery yesterday on his tibia where they inserted a plate and 10 screws the insision is very large and a portion of the skin under some of the stitches turning a grayish to black color. How can we care for the skin so that it does not die or get worse? He's getting lymphedema wraps Put on everyday by physical therapist.
Brief Answer:
Limb elevation, ankle pump
Detailed Answer:
Hi there
Thanks for the query
The blackening of the skin is probably due to high tension the skin is under, due to tight sutures, skin oedema or other local causes.
He must follow strict limb elevation over a couple of thin pillows, perform ankle pump exercises.
Regular dressing and antibiotics should keep a check on infection.
Do inform his doctor about the skin blackening because in some cases, the skin can fall off which needs a skin graft to cover.
I hope I have answered your query.
I will be available to answer your follow up queries.
Regards,
Dr. Aashish Raghu
Limb elevation, ankle pump
Detailed Answer:
Hi there
Thanks for the query
The blackening of the skin is probably due to high tension the skin is under, due to tight sutures, skin oedema or other local causes.
He must follow strict limb elevation over a couple of thin pillows, perform ankle pump exercises.
Regular dressing and antibiotics should keep a check on infection.
Do inform his doctor about the skin blackening because in some cases, the skin can fall off which needs a skin graft to cover.
I hope I have answered your query.
I will be available to answer your follow up queries.
Regards,
Dr. Aashish Raghu
Note: For further queries, consult a joint and bone specialist, an Orthopaedic surgeon. Book a Call now.
Above answer was peer-reviewed by :
Dr. Vaishalee Punj
Answered by
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