Post-Surgery Wound Discharge: When to Seek Medical Attention

Seven days after the stitches on the left leg from the car accident, yellow-green fluid began to appear at the site of the stitches?

Hello Dr.
Lee,
I am on the seventh day after my left foot stitches from a car accident.
I have noticed yellow-green fluid starting to appear at the stitch site.
Here is the link to the image: https://imgur.com/a/D0afZ7d (the gauze just removed and the wound cleaned with saline).
I would like to ask if this is normal tissue fluid or if the wound has become inflamed and infected.
I visited the doctor five days ago, and he scheduled a follow-up for seven days later.
If it is indeed infected, should I wait two more days for the appointment, or should I return immediately? Thank you for your assistance, Dr.
Lee.

Mr. Chen, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2020/04/08

Dr. Li Zhonghuai reply Surgery

Hello! If you encounter this situation with your wound next time, please return for a follow-up visit.
There can be many conditions with wounds from car accidents, such as rust, metal shavings, and sand.
If the healing is poor, it may be necessary to remove the stitches and perform debridement.
Take care! Changhua Hospital cares about you!

Reply Date: 2020/04/08

More Info

After surgery, proper wound care is crucial for healing and preventing complications. The appearance of yellow-green discharge from a surgical wound, especially seven days post-operation, raises concerns about potential infection. In this case, it is essential to differentiate between normal healing processes and signs of infection.

Understanding Wound Discharge
1. Normal Healing: After surgery, it is typical for wounds to produce some fluid, known as serous fluid, which is clear or slightly yellowish. This fluid helps in the healing process by providing a moist environment. However, as healing progresses, the amount of discharge should decrease.

2. Signs of Infection: The presence of yellow-green discharge can indicate infection, especially if it is accompanied by other symptoms such as increased redness, swelling, warmth around the wound, or fever. The yellow-green color often suggests the presence of pus, which is a sign that the body is fighting an infection.

When to Seek Medical Attention
Given that you are experiencing yellow-green discharge from your wound, it is advisable to seek medical attention sooner rather than later. Here are some guidelines:
- Immediate Attention: If the discharge is accompanied by significant pain, swelling, or fever, you should seek medical attention immediately. These symptoms could indicate a more severe infection that may require prompt treatment, such as antibiotics or further surgical intervention.

- Scheduled Follow-Up: If you have a follow-up appointment scheduled in two days, and the discharge is not worsening, you might consider waiting. However, if you notice any changes in the wound's appearance or if your overall condition worsens, do not hesitate to contact your healthcare provider.

Additional Considerations
- Wound Care: Ensure that you are following the wound care instructions provided by your healthcare team. This typically includes keeping the wound clean and dry, changing dressings as recommended, and avoiding any activities that could stress the wound.

- Monitoring Symptoms: Keep a close eye on the wound for any changes. If you notice increased redness, swelling, or discharge, or if you develop a fever, these are signs that you should seek medical care immediately.

- Communication with Healthcare Provider: If you have concerns about your wound or if you are unsure about the discharge, it is always best to err on the side of caution and consult your healthcare provider. They can provide guidance based on your specific situation and medical history.

Conclusion
In summary, while some discharge can be normal after surgery, yellow-green discharge is often a sign of infection and should be evaluated by a healthcare professional. Given your situation, it is advisable to seek medical attention sooner rather than wait for your scheduled appointment, especially if you experience any worsening symptoms. Prompt intervention can help prevent complications and promote better healing outcomes. Always prioritize open communication with your healthcare team regarding any concerns you may have about your recovery process.

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