Post-Surgery Wound Concerns: When to Seek Medical Attention?

Postoperative wound

I am the mother of a child who underwent an appendectomy on June 5th.
In the past few days, I have noticed that the condition of the right side of the incision resembles a keloid, but it feels soft when pressed.
My child says it hurts (normally, he/she does not complain of pain).
Given the current pandemic situation, I am inquiring whether this condition requires medical attention.
Thank you.

Chen, 0~9 year old female. Ask Date: 2021/07/11

Dr. Ke Fangxu reply Surgery

If it has been a month since the surgery, there should generally be no issues.
Surgical site infections typically occur within the first week post-operation, while intra-abdominal abscesses may develop around two weeks later.
If there are no symptoms of fever or abdominal pain, there is usually no need to rush to the doctor.

Reply Date: 2021/07/11

More Info

Post-surgery wound care is crucial for ensuring proper healing and minimizing complications. In your case, it sounds like your child underwent an appendectomy on June 5th, and you are noticing some concerning signs at the surgical site. The presence of a soft, raised area resembling a keloid (or crab foot) and your child's report of pain at the site are important indicators that warrant further evaluation.

Keloids are a type of thick, raised scar that can form after surgery or injury. They occur due to an overproduction of collagen during the healing process. While keloids are generally not harmful, they can be uncomfortable and may indicate that the healing process is not proceeding as expected. The fact that your child is experiencing pain at the site is also significant. Pain can be a normal part of the healing process, but if it is persistent or worsening, it could indicate an underlying issue such as infection or improper healing.

Given the current pandemic situation, it is understandable to be cautious about seeking medical attention. However, it is essential to prioritize your child's health. If the wound appears red, swollen, or if there is an increase in pain, these could be signs of infection, and you should seek medical attention promptly. Additionally, if there is any discharge from the wound that is foul-smelling or if your child develops a fever, these are also red flags that require immediate medical evaluation.

In the absence of these alarming symptoms, you may consider monitoring the wound closely. Keep the area clean and dry, and avoid any activities that could irritate the wound. If the raised area continues to grow or if the pain does not subside, it would be wise to consult with your child's surgeon or a pediatrician for further assessment. They may recommend treatments such as corticosteroid injections to reduce the keloid or other interventions to address the pain.

In summary, while some discomfort and changes in the wound are common after surgery, the specific symptoms you describe—particularly the pain and the appearance of a keloid-like formation—should not be ignored. It is always better to err on the side of caution when it comes to post-surgical care. If you have any doubts or concerns, do not hesitate to reach out to a healthcare professional for guidance. Your child's well-being is the priority, and timely intervention can prevent more serious complications down the line.

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