Post-Surgery Concerns: Delayed Healing After Anal Fissure and Hemorrhoid Surgery

Three months post-surgery?

Hello Doctor, I am the one who previously left a message regarding #204738.
It has been three months since my anal fissure and hemorrhoid surgery, and the wound still shows no signs of healing.
I am still taking stool softeners daily and using suppositories before bed.
I felt some improvement last week, but since the first day of the lunar month, I have been feeling uncomfortable again, with white discharge coming from the anal area.
During my last follow-up appointment, the doctor only examined visually and did not perform a digital examination, possibly because there were no visible issues.
I feel like the wound might be deeper inside.
Should I consider seeing another doctor for a second opinion? Also, could it be that the suppositories, which I have been using for a longer time and have become a bit hard, are causing the wound to reopen? I am a bit worried about the possibility of developing other anal conditions.
Or could it be that my anal fissure was left untreated for too long, leading to poor healing capacity in that area? Thank you for your advice, Doctor.

Liao, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2024/02/11

Dr. Zhang Shuhao reply Surgery

If the wound continues to exude a white fluid, it can be monitored if it is tissue fluid.
However, if there is swelling, pain, and purulent discharge, a medical evaluation and treatment are necessary.
When using suppositories frequently, it is important to pay attention to the insertion direction to avoid injury; it is best to lubricate with ointment before insertion.
The healing speed of the wound after anal fissure surgery varies from person to person.
Slower healing may be related to individual constitution, immune status, nutritional condition, and wound care.
It is advisable to discuss with the surgeon whether there is a need to adjust medications or methods of wound care.

Reply Date: 2024/02/11

More Info

Post-surgery concerns regarding delayed healing after anal fissure and hemorrhoid surgery can be quite distressing, and it's understandable that you're feeling anxious about your recovery. Healing times can vary significantly from person to person, and several factors can influence the healing process after such surgeries.

Firstly, it's important to recognize that the anal region is particularly sensitive and can take time to heal. After surgery for anal fissures and hemorrhoids, it is not uncommon for patients to experience discomfort, pain, and even some discharge for several weeks or months. The presence of white discharge, as you described, could be a sign of normal healing, but it could also indicate a potential issue that needs to be addressed.

The fact that you are still relying on stool softeners and suppositories indicates that you may be experiencing ongoing issues with bowel movements. Maintaining soft stools is crucial after such surgeries to prevent straining, which can lead to re-tearing of the fissure or irritation of the surgical site. However, if you find that the suppositories are causing discomfort or if they are hard to insert, it may be worth discussing alternative treatments with your healthcare provider.

Regarding your concern about whether the suppositories could be causing the wound to reopen, it is possible that improper use or excessive pressure during insertion could lead to irritation. It's essential to follow the instructions provided by your doctor regarding the use of these medications. If you feel that you are experiencing pain or discomfort from their use, it may be prudent to consult your physician for advice on how to proceed.

You mentioned that your last follow-up appointment involved only a visual inspection and no digital examination. While visual assessments can provide some information, a digital examination may be necessary to evaluate the internal healing of the surgical site more thoroughly. If you feel that your concerns are not being adequately addressed, seeking a second opinion from another physician could be beneficial. A different perspective may provide you with more insight into your healing process and any potential complications.

It's also worth considering that if your anal fissure was chronic before surgery, it could have affected the tissue's healing capacity. Chronic fissures can lead to changes in the anal tissue, making it more susceptible to further injury or slower healing. This could explain why you are experiencing prolonged discomfort and delayed healing.

In summary, while some discomfort and discharge can be normal after anal fissure and hemorrhoid surgery, persistent symptoms warrant further evaluation. It is advisable to communicate openly with your healthcare provider about your concerns and symptoms. If you feel that your current physician is not addressing your issues adequately, seeking a second opinion is a reasonable course of action. Remember, your comfort and health are paramount, and you deserve to have your concerns taken seriously.

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