Post-Thrombectomy Purple Bumps: Causes and Concerns

Purplish-red protrusions after thrombectomy?

Hello, I would like to ask about my outpatient surgery for thrombectomy performed on January 5th.
Preoperatively, besides the particularly large protruding area (the thrombus that was later removed), there were also small purplish-red bumps in other areas when I spread my buttocks.
One month post-surgery, it appears that there is an additional piece of tissue at the incision site, and the purplish-red bumps are less noticeable.
After drinking 100cc of plum wine during the New Year, I noticed some swelling at the wound site, and those purplish-red small bumps have reappeared.
Is this normal, or could it be a sign of a new small thrombus forming? I have been taking warm sitz baths daily, but I haven't seen any improvement.
I'm not sure if this is just a result of straining or if it could be due to consuming too much rich food during the New Year.
Thank you.

Xuetuan de kongjue zhe, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2021/02/13

Dr. Ke Fangxu reply Surgery

Due to the access restrictions on the link you provided, I am unable to view it.
Based on your description, it is possible that the issue is residual skin after thrombectomy.
As long as there is no continuous growth, pain, or bleeding, it should not be a concern.
Activities such as drinking alcohol or straining during bowel movements can potentially worsen the symptoms.
Currently, topical ointments and sitz baths should help improve the condition.
If the symptoms do not improve, it is advisable to consult a physician for further examination and treatment.

Reply Date: 2021/02/13

More Info

After undergoing a thrombectomy, it is common to have concerns about the appearance of purple bumps or other changes in the skin around the surgical site. These symptoms can be attributed to several factors, and understanding them can help alleviate your worries.

Firstly, the purple bumps you are observing could be a result of post-operative bruising or hematoma formation. After surgery, it is not unusual for blood vessels to leak blood into the surrounding tissues, leading to discoloration and swelling. This is particularly true if there was significant manipulation of the tissues during the procedure. The fact that these bumps appeared after consuming alcohol, such as plum wine, could also contribute to increased blood flow and potential swelling in the area, as alcohol can cause blood vessels to dilate.

Additionally, the presence of purple bumps could indicate the formation of small blood clots or thrombi, especially if they are accompanied by pain or tenderness. However, if the bumps are not painful and are simply a change in color, they may just be a normal part of the healing process. It is essential to monitor these bumps for any changes in size, color, or associated symptoms such as increased pain or swelling, which could indicate a complication.

Regarding your concern about the bumps not diminishing despite daily sitz baths, it is important to note that healing can take time. The body needs to reabsorb any accumulated fluid or blood, and this process can vary from person to person. If you are using warm water for sitz baths, this can help promote circulation and may aid in the healing process, but it may not lead to immediate visible changes.

If you are experiencing discomfort or if the bumps persist or worsen, it is advisable to consult your surgeon or healthcare provider. They may perform a physical examination and possibly imaging studies to ensure that there are no underlying issues, such as a recurrent thrombus or infection.

In summary, while the appearance of purple bumps after a thrombectomy can be concerning, they are often part of the normal healing process. Factors such as bruising, hematoma formation, and the effects of alcohol can all contribute to these symptoms. However, close monitoring and communication with your healthcare provider are crucial to ensure that your recovery progresses smoothly and to address any potential complications promptly.

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