What Causes Yellowish Drainage From A Stitched Wound On The Thumb?

Posted on Wed, 18 Jan 2017

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

Wed, 18 Jan 2017 Answered on

Mon, 13 Feb 2017 Last reviewed on

Question : I sliced my thumb on the joint a week ago. I ignored my better judgement and did not get stitches as it was deep, jagged and on a joint. Now, a week later, I am noticing some yellowish drainage coming from the wound that is getting thicker in consistency. Should I go to the urgent care soon and, if so, what can they do for me since it has been a week since the injury occurred?

Answered by Dr. Hari Charan Perigela (39 minutes later)

Brief Answer:
It got infected.

Detailed Answer:
Hi
Thick discharge from the wound could be Pus .
As you are going after 1 week,there is no chance of suturing .They may send the discharge /Pus for Culture and Sensitivity to get appropriate Antibiotic.
I do the same.Till culture report,I prescribe Antibiotic Linezolid 600mg twice daily after food.
I clean the wound with Povidone Iodine solution and Hydrogen peroxide solution.Later,I apply Povidone iodine ointment and cover it with a dressing.
Nothing to worry.
Please consult doctor in Urgent care and proceed further.
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