Post-Surgery Consultation: Questions About Fistula Removal Recovery

Post-operative consultation for fistula surgery?

Hello Dr.
Chang, I underwent a fistula tube removal surgery on November 7th, and the current condition of my wound is as follows: https://imgur.com/a/d5Zh6dH.
As of today, the pain in the wound has gradually decreased, with only slight discomfort when pressing on the opening or riding a motorcycle.
I would like to consult you on the following questions, and I appreciate your time in answering them:
1.
Is the current healing condition of the wound normal?
2.
The wound is still secreting yellowish fluid and light pink fluid; is this normal?
3.
Is it appropriate to engage in upper body (chest/shoulders/arms/back) weight training at this stage?
4.
Is it acceptable to reduce sitz baths from four times a day (morning, noon, evening, and before bed) to three times a day (morning, evening, and before bed)?
5.
Does the wound still require the application of ointment (Spersin Ointment) inside?

Austin, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2022/11/22

Dr. Zhang Shuhao reply Surgery

1.
The wound healing process is normal.

2.
Normal.

3.
Can do.

4.
Can do.

5.
There is no need to apply too deeply; just a small amount around the wound is sufficient.

Reply Date: 2022/11/22

More Info

After undergoing a fistula removal surgery, it is essential to monitor your recovery closely and address any concerns you may have about the healing process. Based on your description and the questions you've posed, I will provide insights into each of your concerns.

1. Is the current healing of the wound normal?
It is common for surgical wounds to take time to heal, and the gradual reduction in pain you are experiencing is a positive sign. Typically, the healing process can vary depending on individual factors such as overall health, the extent of the surgery, and adherence to post-operative care instructions. If the wound is not showing signs of infection (such as increased redness, swelling, or discharge), then it is likely healing appropriately. Regular follow-ups with your healthcare provider are crucial to ensure that the healing process is on track.

2. Is the discharge of yellow and light pink fluid normal?
Some discharge is expected after surgery, especially in the initial healing stages. Yellow fluid can be a sign of normal healing, as it may consist of serum or lymphatic fluid. However, if the discharge has a foul odor, is accompanied by increased pain, or changes in color to a more pronounced yellow or green, it could indicate an infection. Light pink fluid may be blood mixed with the discharge, which can also be normal in small amounts. Monitoring the characteristics of the discharge is important, and if you have concerns, it is advisable to consult your doctor.

3. Is it suitable to engage in upper body weight training?
Engaging in weight training, particularly for the upper body, should be approached with caution. It is generally recommended to avoid strenuous activities that could strain the surgical site until you have fully healed. This can take several weeks, depending on your recovery. It is best to consult with your surgeon or a physical therapist before resuming any weight training to ensure that it will not impede your healing process.

4. Can I reduce sitz baths from four times a day to three?
Sitz baths are beneficial for promoting healing and comfort in the anal area after surgery. If you feel comfortable and your doctor has not specified a strict regimen, reducing the frequency to three times a day may be acceptable. However, it is essential to listen to your body and maintain cleanliness to prevent infection. If you notice any discomfort or changes in your condition, it may be wise to revert to the original frequency or consult your healthcare provider.

5. Should I continue applying ointment to the wound?
The application of ointment can help keep the area moist and promote healing. However, it is crucial to follow your surgeon's specific instructions regarding the use of ointments. If your doctor has advised against deep application, it is wise to adhere to that guidance. Applying a small amount around the wound may be sufficient. If you have any concerns about the healing process or the need for ointment, discussing this with your healthcare provider is advisable.

In summary, your recovery appears to be progressing well, but it is essential to remain vigilant and proactive about your healing process. Regular follow-ups with your healthcare provider, maintaining good hygiene, and adhering to post-operative care instructions will significantly contribute to a successful recovery. If you experience any concerning symptoms or have further questions, do not hesitate to reach out to your healthcare provider for personalized advice.

Similar Q&A

Understanding Fistula Recovery: Key Considerations and Next Steps

Hello, doctor. I underwent an anal fistula incision surgery in May, but the postoperative outcome was not ideal, so I had a fistula debridement surgery in August. The surgeon indicated that the internal opening has healed, and no other openings were observed during the fistulosco...

Dr. Ke Fangxu reply Surgery
So initially, there was no intention to completely open the entire fistula tract? If only a small area was debrided at the beginning, then recurrence can be considered an inevitable outcome. 1. You might consider combining oral antibiotics to see if it helps. 2. Each hospital has...

Post-Fistula Surgery: Do You Need Assistance for Recovery?

After the fistula surgery, will I need assistance, or can I manage all my daily activities independently until discharge? The surgery has already been scheduled, and the doctor mentioned that I can be discharged the day after the surgery. Also, will I be able to have normal bowel...

Dr. Zhang Shuhao reply Surgery
Postoperative pain is the main concern after a simple fistula surgery. With appropriate analgesics, daily activities can be managed independently. Patients can resume normal bowel movements and bathing after the procedure. There may be a small amount of blood and discharge from t...

Post-Surgery Concerns: Managing Discharge and Bleeding After Fistula Repair

Hello doctor, I had a fistula surgery a month ago. The outside of the wound looks like it has healed, but there is still a little discharge that resembles pus. Is this normal? Also, last week I experienced some bleeding while using the restroom due to hard stools. Will this affec...

Dr. Ke Fangxu reply Surgery
The recovery period after fistula surgery is generally longer, typically requiring one to two months. During this time, there may be discharge from the wound. If the wound has healed but purulent discharge appears, it may indicate a recurrence of the fistula. It is generally reco...

Post-Surgery Recovery Challenges After Anal Fistula Treatment

Hello Doctor, On July 1st of this year, I underwent treatment for an anal fistula at a clinic in Kaohsiung (I apologize for the electrotherapy that you do not recommend). The diagnosis was a complex anal fistula. During this period, I had intermittent rest and surgeries, with t...

Dr. Ke Fangxu reply Surgery
1. The recovery time for a typical anal fistula surgery is approximately one month, while more complex fistulas may take longer. I personally have less experience with radiation therapy, but the recovery time is generally a bit longer compared to traditional surgery. Whether the ...