Wrist Pain and Vein Issues After Surgery: A Guide

Q: Wrist Pain and Vein Issues After Surgery: A Guide

Hello, regarding your inquiry： 1. <br>Generally, absorbable sutures are used for internal suturing and can be broken down and absorbed within a few days to weeks. <br>However, there are exceptions, such as suture rejection or poor absorption, which are usually identified when the

Pain in the veins surrounding the right wrist?

Hello Doctor: I have recently been diagnosed with mild hyperthyroidism and am currently on medication.
I underwent an appendectomy on June 25, and while the incision has healed, it is still red and painful.
Last week, I pierced the wound and expelled a 1.5 cm black line.
Additionally, I have been experiencing venous swelling and pain in my wrist and the back of my hand for about two months.
Initially, I thought it was a sprain and used a topical patch, but it was ineffective.
Gradually, the veins have become more prominent, and there is slight swelling.
There is no pain when kneading dough, but twisting a towel causes pain in my ring and little fingers.
I would like to ask: 1.
How can I determine if the suture line is not absorbing properly? 2.
How should I care for the wrist pain, and which specialty should I consult for further evaluation? I look forward to your reply.
Thank you!

vivian, 50~59 year old female. Ask Date: 2021/10/22

Dr. Li Han reply Cardiology

Hello, regarding your inquiry: 1.
Generally, absorbable sutures are used for internal suturing and can be broken down and absorbed within a few days to weeks.
However, there are exceptions, such as suture rejection or poor absorption, which are usually identified when the sutures are expelled or when local inflammatory symptoms appear.
Removing the residual suture material should lead to a gradual resolution of the inflammation, while the original incision is likely already healed without risk of tearing.
2.
If there is venous inflammation, known as thrombophlebitis, it can cause pain in the affected vein.
It is advisable to consult a cardiovascular specialist (either internal or external) for further evaluation.
The Changhua Hospital of the Ministry of Health and Welfare is here to assist you.

Reply Date: 2021/10/22

More Info

After undergoing surgery, particularly for conditions like appendicitis, it's not uncommon to experience various symptoms, including pain, swelling, and issues related to the veins. Your situation, which involves wrist pain and visible vein issues, warrants a careful evaluation to determine the underlying causes and appropriate management strategies.

Understanding Your Symptoms
1. Surgical Site Issues: The presence of redness and pain around your surgical site could indicate inflammation or infection. The fact that you mentioned a black line emerging from the wound could suggest a possible foreign body reaction or necrotic tissue that needs to be evaluated by a healthcare professional. It’s crucial to monitor for any signs of infection, such as increased redness, warmth, swelling, or discharge.

2. Wrist Pain and Vein Issues: The swelling and pain in your wrist and the visibility of veins can be attributed to several factors:
- Venous Insufficiency: This occurs when the veins cannot pump enough blood back to the heart, leading to swelling and discomfort.

- Post-Surgical Edema: After surgery, it's common to experience swelling in the extremities due to fluid accumulation, especially if you have been less active.

- Nerve Compression or Injury: The pain you feel when twisting a towel could indicate nerve involvement, particularly if the pain is localized to specific fingers (like the ring and little fingers), which may suggest ulnar nerve involvement.

Management Strategies
1. Assessing the Surgical Site:
- Follow-Up Care: It's essential to have a follow-up appointment with your surgeon or primary care physician to evaluate the surgical site. They may perform a physical examination and possibly imaging studies to assess for any complications.

- Wound Care: Keep the area clean and dry. If there are signs of infection, such as increased redness, warmth, or discharge, seek medical attention promptly.

2. Wrist Pain Management:
- Rest and Ice: Resting the wrist and applying ice can help reduce swelling and pain. Avoid activities that exacerbate the pain, particularly those that involve gripping or twisting motions.

- Compression and Elevation: Using a compression bandage can help manage swelling. Elevating the wrist above heart level can also assist in reducing edema.

- Pain Relief: Over-the-counter pain medications like ibuprofen or acetaminophen can help manage pain and inflammation. However, consult with your healthcare provider before starting any new medication.

3. When to Seek Further Medical Attention:
- If your symptoms persist or worsen despite conservative measures, it may be necessary to consult a specialist. Given your symptoms, you might consider seeing an orthopedic surgeon for the wrist pain or a vascular specialist for the vein issues.

- If you experience any new symptoms, such as severe pain, significant swelling, or changes in skin color, seek immediate medical attention.

Conclusion
In summary, your symptoms following surgery could be multifactorial, involving both the surgical site and potential vascular issues in your wrist. It's crucial to have a thorough evaluation by a healthcare professional to rule out complications and to develop an appropriate treatment plan. Early intervention can significantly improve outcomes and help alleviate your discomfort. Remember to keep track of your symptoms and communicate openly with your healthcare provider about any changes you notice.

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