Post-operative dehiscence after circumcision?
Hello doctor, I underwent a circumcision on the morning of December 6th using a circumcision device.
I had follow-up appointments on December 7th and 8th to check the wound and change the dressings.
During these days, I was very careful to avoid erections to prevent the wound from opening.
Today, December 15th, while taking a shower, I noticed that the sutured area near the glans has opened up about 0.5 cm, but there is no sensation or bleeding.
I had a follow-up appointment in the evening and asked the doctor to perform an emergency repair and suturing.
Given that it has been nearly 10 days since the surgery, can this 0.5 cm gap still heal perfectly without reopening? The recovery period is already more than halfway through, and I noticed that about one-third of the stitches have fallen out on their own.
Is it possible for the sutured area to reopen where the stitches have fallen out? Currently, the area where the stitches have fallen out appears to be healing very well, except for the gap, which the doctor said would have the stitches removed in about a week.
I am concerned that if the gap is not fully healed by the time the stitches are removed, it may reopen.
What is the likelihood of this happening? If so, would it require another surgery? I am seeking your guidance, thank you, doctor.
123, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2023/12/15
Dr. Du Shixi reply Urology
Hello: It has been a while, and it is unlikely to crack.
The chances are low, and the doctor will evaluate it.
Wishing you good health.
Reply Date: 2023/12/15
More Info
Post-circumcision complications can be concerning, especially when it comes to wound healing and the potential for further issues. Based on your description, it seems that you experienced a small separation in the sutured area of your circumcision site about ten days post-surgery. While it’s good to hear that there was no bleeding or pain associated with this separation, it’s understandable to be anxious about the healing process and the potential for complications.
First, it’s important to note that minor separations in surgical wounds can occur, especially in delicate areas like the circumcision site. The fact that you had a follow-up appointment shortly after noticing the issue and that your doctor was able to address it promptly is a positive sign. The emergency repair of the 0.5 cm separation should help facilitate proper healing.
In terms of healing, the body has a remarkable ability to repair itself, and with proper care, the area should heal well. The sutures that were placed during your emergency repair will help hold the tissue together as it heals. It’s crucial to follow your doctor’s post-operative care instructions closely, which may include keeping the area clean, avoiding strenuous activities, and monitoring for signs of infection (such as increased redness, swelling, or discharge).
Regarding your concern about the sutures falling out, it’s common for absorbable sutures to dissolve or fall out on their own as the tissue heals. If the area appears to be healing well, this is typically a good sign. However, if you notice any changes or if the area begins to open again, it’s essential to contact your healthcare provider immediately.
As for the risk of the area reopening after the sutures are removed, there is always a possibility, especially if the tissue has not fully healed. However, if the initial healing process has been good and there are no signs of infection or complications, the likelihood of reopening is reduced. Your doctor will likely assess the healing progress during your follow-up visit when the sutures are scheduled to be removed.
If there are concerns about the area not healing properly, your doctor may recommend additional measures, such as a more conservative approach to activity or possibly even a secondary procedure if necessary. However, this is typically a last resort and would depend on the specific circumstances of your healing process.
In summary, while it’s natural to have concerns about post-operative healing, especially after experiencing a complication, it sounds like you are taking the right steps by seeking medical attention and following up with your doctor. Keep monitoring the area, adhere to your doctor's advice, and don’t hesitate to reach out if you have any further concerns. With proper care, there is a good chance that the area will heal well without the need for further surgical intervention.
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