Post-Surgery Complications: Foreign Bodies in Urological Sutures

Q: Post-Surgery Complications: Foreign Bodies in Urological Sutures

Hello： It may not necessarily be a foreign body; it could also be scar tissue or poorly healed areas that may harbor secretions. <br>You should return to the doctor for an examination. <br>Currently, keep the area clean and dry; you can soak it in water, but make sure to dry it a

Foreign body at the suture site?

The surgery was over a year ago, and the sutured area (the surrounding circle) feels hard, as if there are thread ends inside.
There is more than one, and it hurts when I squeeze it with my hand when not erect.
During an erection, pressing or touching it causes pain.
I want to squeeze it, but I can only get a little white substance out, which might have been pushed in during the erection after the surgery.
I'm troubled by the fact that during sexual intercourse, it is very sensitive (even though I have been using lubricant).
Could this be caused by a foreign body or is it due to other reasons?

A Zhi, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2021/07/20

Dr. Du Shixi reply Urology

Hello: It may not necessarily be a foreign body; it could also be scar tissue or poorly healed areas that may harbor secretions.
You should return to the doctor for an examination.
Currently, keep the area clean and dry; you can soak it in water, but make sure to dry it afterward.
Wishing you good health.

Reply Date: 2021/07/20

More Info

Post-surgical complications can be quite complex, especially when it comes to urological procedures. The symptoms you are describing—hardness at the suture site, pain during erection, and sensitivity during sexual activity—may indeed suggest the presence of foreign bodies or other complications related to the surgical site.

Understanding the Symptoms
1. Hardness at the Suture Site: The presence of a hard lump or area at the site of a surgical incision can be indicative of several things. It could be scar tissue (fibrosis), which is a normal part of the healing process. However, if the hardness feels like a thread or foreign material, it could suggest that suture material is still present or that there is a reaction to the suture. Some sutures are designed to dissolve over time, while others are permanent. If non-absorbable sutures were used, they could potentially cause irritation or a foreign body reaction.

2. Pain During Erection: Pain during an erection can be concerning and may arise from several factors. It could be due to inflammation, nerve irritation, or even the presence of a foreign body. If the sutures are causing irritation to surrounding tissues or if there is an infection, this could lead to increased sensitivity and pain.

3. Sensitivity During Sexual Activity: Increased sensitivity during sexual activity, even with the use of lubricants, can be a sign of underlying issues. This could be due to nerve sensitivity, inflammation, or the presence of foreign material that is irritating the tissues.

Potential Causes
- Foreign Bodies: If there are remnants of suture material or other foreign bodies left in the tissue, they can provoke a chronic inflammatory response. This can lead to pain, sensitivity, and the formation of hard lumps as the body attempts to isolate the foreign material.

- Scar Tissue Formation: After surgery, scar tissue can form, which may be more sensitive than normal tissue. This can lead to discomfort during erections or sexual activity.

- Infection: Although you mentioned that you can only express a small amount of white fluid, it’s essential to consider the possibility of an infection. Infections can lead to abscess formation, which may feel like a hard lump and can cause significant pain.

Recommendations
1. Consult Your Surgeon: It is crucial to follow up with the surgeon who performed the procedure. They can assess the area through a physical examination and possibly imaging studies (like an ultrasound) to determine if there are any foreign bodies or complications.

2. Pain Management: In the meantime, managing pain with over-the-counter pain relievers may help, but it’s essential to avoid self-medicating without consulting a healthcare provider.

3. Avoid Sexual Activity: Until you have a clear understanding of what is causing your symptoms, it may be wise to avoid sexual activity to prevent further irritation or injury.

4. Consider a Second Opinion: If you feel that your concerns are not being adequately addressed, seeking a second opinion from another urologist may provide additional insights and treatment options.

5. Monitoring Symptoms: Keep track of any changes in your symptoms, such as increased pain, swelling, or discharge, and report these to your healthcare provider promptly.

Conclusion
The presence of hard areas at the suture site, pain during erections, and sensitivity during sexual activity could indicate complications from your surgery, such as foreign bodies or scar tissue. It is essential to consult with your surgeon or a urologist to evaluate these symptoms properly. They can provide a thorough examination and recommend appropriate treatment options to alleviate your discomfort and address any underlying issues.

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