Pain After Surgical Debridement of Wound Granulation

Burning sensation in the wound?

I have a deep wound on my ankle that is healing slowly.
After showing it to the doctor today, he said that the granulation tissue is not growing well; it's too large and is obstructing the epithelial proliferation.
He used a silver rod to cauterize the granulation tissue.
It was very painful during the procedure, and now, three hours after returning home, it still hurts.
Is this level of pain normal? How long will it last? Thank you!

Zhi Zhi, 40~49 year old female. Ask Date: 2022/10/21

Dr. Li Zhonghuai reply Surgery

Hello! Wound tissue contains nerves, so it is normal to experience pain after treatment.
It is generally recommended to take pain medication 30 minutes before changing the dressing.
Take care! Changhua Hospital cares about you!

Reply Date: 2022/10/21

More Info

After undergoing surgical debridement of a wound, particularly when granulation tissue is involved, experiencing pain is a common and expected reaction. The procedure you described, where the doctor used a silver rod to cauterize the excessive granulation tissue, can cause significant discomfort. This is due to the destruction of tissue and the stimulation of nerve endings in the area.
Granulation tissue is a normal part of the healing process, but when it becomes excessive, it can impede the formation of new skin (epithelialization). The cauterization process aims to remove this excess tissue to promote better healing. While the procedure is necessary, it can lead to acute pain immediately afterward, as you have experienced.
The pain you are feeling three hours post-procedure is likely a result of the cauterization. Typically, this pain can last for several hours to a few days, depending on the extent of the tissue affected and your individual pain tolerance. It is important to manage this pain effectively. Over-the-counter pain relievers, such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen, can be helpful, but you should follow the dosage instructions and consult your healthcare provider if you have any concerns or pre-existing conditions that might affect your ability to take these medications.

In terms of healing, it is crucial to monitor the wound for any signs of infection, such as increased redness, swelling, warmth, or discharge. If you notice any of these symptoms, or if the pain worsens rather than improves, you should contact your healthcare provider for further evaluation.
Additionally, after such a procedure, it is essential to follow your doctor's post-operative care instructions closely. This may include keeping the wound clean and dry, changing dressings as recommended, and avoiding activities that could stress the area until it has healed sufficiently.
In summary, while the pain you are experiencing is a normal response to the cauterization of granulation tissue, it is important to manage it effectively and keep an eye on the healing process. If you have any concerns about the pain or the healing of your wound, do not hesitate to reach out to your healthcare provider for guidance. They can provide you with personalized advice based on your specific situation and help ensure that your recovery proceeds smoothly.

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