What Causes Redness And Painful Swelling At The Suture Wound Site?

Posted on Wed, 3 Jun 2015

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

Wed, 3 Jun 2015 Answered on

Tue, 23 Jun 2015 Last reviewed on

Question : I had a laproscopic hysterectomy 3 weeks ago today. On Sunday 2 of the suture wounds started swelling up. The cut itself is healed but around the would is red hot and hard. I called the dr today and they are seeing me on Thursday. This is very painful. Will Thursday be soon enough? I can send pictures. Very slight fever at times. Never over 99.9.

Answered by Dr. Hari Charan Perigela (42 minutes later)

Brief Answer:
It could be due to blood collection .

Detailed Answer:
Hi,

During Laparoscopic surgeries, small incisions are given and ports are introduced. And if the bleeding points are not properly identified and closed properly there will be blood collection beneath the skin suture. I saw the picture and it looks like blood collection.

If it is not drained in time, there are chances of infection is more. The mild fever and pain may be secondary to inflammatory changes or a possible infection. In my opinion, you should get an Ultrasound abdomen to rule out any collection at the suture site and also Complete Blood Picture.

If you are able to manage the pain with over the counter pain killer, you an meet the doctor on Thursday which happens to be tomorrow. Please be watchful. Monitor temperature and for localised oozing.

Hope I answered your query. If you have any questions, I will clarify further.
Wish you good health.
Regards

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Prasad