Post-Surgery Concerns After Anal Abscess and Hemorrhoid Removal

Postoperative issues following anal abscess surgery?

Doctor, excuse me, I have a few questions.
I had an anal abscess surgery about a week ago, and the doctor also removed a few small hemorrhoids.
After about a week, I feel that the pain at the wound site is not as intense as it was initially.
However, is it normal to experience significant pain after bowel movements, especially when I only pass a small amount each time?
1.
Is it normal to have severe pain after bowel movements, even if it's just a little bit each time?
2.
After bowel movements, I noticed that the color of the water in the toilet is a bit deep red, but not very dark—it's somewhere between pink and deep red.
Is this normal?
3.
I have been taking sitz baths, and when I touch the wound, I can feel the tissue that the doctor mentioned.
However, it seems like there is a bit too much tissue around the anal area, and it feels somewhat constricted.
Is this a normal situation?

A Xiu, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2017/09/25

Dr. Xu Kaixi reply Surgery

I apologize for the delayed response due to the forwarding process of the email.
I hope your wound and issues have improved by now.

1 and 2.
It is normal for the anal area not to be completely healed one week post-surgery, and experiencing pain and slight bleeding during bowel movements, resulting in blood in the toilet, is expected.

3.
It is also normal to feel tightness or a sensation of narrowing in the anal area after surgery due to the wound and scarring, which typically improves over time.

Reply Date: 2017/09/25

More Info

After undergoing surgery for an anal abscess and hemorrhoid removal, it's common to have concerns regarding post-operative symptoms and recovery. Let's address your questions one by one.

1. Post-Defecation Pain: Experiencing pain after bowel movements is quite normal following such surgeries. The surgical site is still healing, and any pressure or straining during bowel movements can exacerbate discomfort. It's important to ensure that your bowel movements are soft to minimize straining. This can be achieved by increasing your fiber intake, staying hydrated, and possibly using stool softeners if recommended by your physician. If the pain becomes severe or persists beyond the expected recovery period, it would be wise to consult your doctor.

2. Color of Bowel Movements: Seeing a bit of deep red or pink in your stool can be concerning, but it is not uncommon after surgery in the anal region. This could be due to minor bleeding from the surgical site, especially if you are experiencing pain and discomfort. However, if the bleeding is significant, or if you notice a change in the color or consistency of your stool, it is crucial to contact your healthcare provider. They may want to examine you to ensure there are no complications, such as infection or excessive bleeding.

3. Feeling of Excess Tissue: The sensation of having extra tissue or a "bump" at the anal opening, often referred to as a "flesh line," can occur after surgery. This is typically part of the healing process, as the body may form scar tissue or granulation tissue in the area. However, if you feel that this tissue is obstructing the anal canal or causing significant discomfort, it is important to discuss this with your surgeon. They can assess whether this is a normal part of healing or if further intervention is necessary.

In summary, while some discomfort and minor bleeding can be expected after anal surgery, it is essential to monitor your symptoms closely. If you experience severe pain, significant bleeding, or any other concerning symptoms, do not hesitate to reach out to your healthcare provider for further evaluation. They can provide guidance tailored to your specific situation and ensure that your recovery is progressing as it should. Remember, post-operative care is crucial, and following your doctor's recommendations regarding diet, activity, and wound care will aid in a smoother recovery process.

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