Post-Surgery Care: Managing Complications with Stomahesive Powder

Q: Post-Surgery Care: Managing Complications with Stomahesive Powder

Hello： In response to your question, the main ingredient of Stomahesive is corn starch, which primarily functions to absorb moisture and increase viscosity. <br>It is generally used to protect the skin around intestinal stomas and can help prevent the detachment of ostomy bags or

Postoperative care issues?

Director Ke, let me describe my medical experience.
I had a lump diagnosed as a pilonidal cyst located quite far from my anus on the right side of my buttock.
I underwent surgery at a clinic to have it excised, and the size was approximately that of an egg with a depth of about 0.8 cm.
After two weeks, I felt that my recovery was slower than expected, so I went to the Tri-Service General Hospital to consult another doctor regarding the healing of the wound.
The doctor recommended that I use Stomahesive Powder, a type of adhesive barrier powder, to keep the wound dry.
However, I noticed that it absorbs the wound's exudate and becomes very sticky, adhering to the wound.
Is this normal? I want to clean it off and reapply the medication, but it is too sticky to remove.
Once it dries, it hardens and sticks to the wound, and I'm afraid to scrub it off too hard because I might pull the skin off the wound as well.
Should I continue using this powder, or should I stop applying it and let the wound heal on its own?

A-Liang, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2013/11/18

Dr. Ke Fangxu reply Surgery

Hello: In response to your question, the main ingredient of Stomahesive is corn starch, which primarily functions to absorb moisture and increase viscosity.
It is generally used to protect the skin around intestinal stomas and can help prevent the detachment of ostomy bags or the occurrence of skin ulcers.
It is less commonly used on poorly healing wounds.
If the wound depth is less than one centimeter, frequent dressing changes can accelerate wound healing, and there is no need to use such products as long as the wound is kept clean and dressings are changed regularly.
Typically, healing should occur within two weeks.

Reply Date: 2013/11/18

More Info

After undergoing surgery for a pilonidal cyst, it is understandable to have concerns about post-operative care, especially regarding the use of Stomahesive Powder. This powder is primarily designed to manage moisture and protect skin around stomas, but it can also be used in certain wound care situations. However, your experience with the powder becoming sticky and difficult to remove raises some important considerations.

Stomahesive Powder contains ingredients that absorb moisture, which can help keep the wound dry. However, if it becomes overly sticky or hardens on the wound, it can complicate the healing process. It is not uncommon for such powders to adhere to the wound, especially if there is any moisture present, such as blood or exudate. This can lead to discomfort and may hinder the healing process if the powder is not managed properly.

In your case, if the powder is sticking too much and causing concern about removing it without damaging the wound, it may be best to consult with your healthcare provider. They can assess the wound and determine whether the powder is appropriate for your situation or if an alternative dressing would be more suitable. It is crucial to maintain a clean and dry environment for the wound to promote healing, and your healthcare provider can guide you on the best practices for this.

If the wound is shallow (less than 1 cm deep), frequent dressing changes with a focus on keeping the area clean and dry may be sufficient for healing without the need for specialized powders. In many cases, simple dressings that allow for airflow and moisture management can be just as effective.

Regarding whether to continue using the powder or to let the wound heal on its own, this decision should be made in consultation with your healthcare provider. They may recommend stopping the use of the powder if it is causing more harm than good and suggest alternative methods for wound care.
In summary, while Stomahesive Powder can be beneficial in certain scenarios, it is essential to monitor how it interacts with your specific wound. If it is causing excessive stickiness or discomfort, it may be time to reassess its use. Always prioritize communication with your healthcare team to ensure that you are following the best course of action for your recovery. They can provide tailored advice based on the specifics of your situation, ensuring that your wound heals properly and efficiently.

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