Laparoscopic Surgery Wound Healing and Complications

Laparoscopic surgery wound

Hello, doctor.
I underwent a laparoscopic total hysterectomy on August 12, which involved three incisions and one drainage site.
The surface healing appears to be good, and the drainage site is not painful when pressed.
However, there are a few small hard lumps, and the incision around my navel feels hard and painful when pressed.
I am unsure of the cause and whether this could be a hematoma.
Since my follow-up appointment is not yet due, should I seek medical attention immediately? Thank you!

J, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2015/09/09

Dr. Lin Wenbin reply Obstetrics and Gynecology

It is still advisable to have a physician examine it, as the written description may not align with the physician's observations in person.

Reply Date: 2015/09/09

More Info

After undergoing laparoscopic total hysterectomy on August 12, it is understandable to have concerns regarding wound healing and potential complications. Laparoscopic surgery is generally associated with less postoperative pain and quicker recovery compared to open surgery, but it is still important to monitor the healing process closely.

1. Wound Healing: The healing of surgical wounds can vary from person to person. In your case, the fact that the surface healing appears good and that the drainage site is not painful is a positive sign. However, the presence of small hard lumps around the incision sites, particularly at the umbilical incision, can be concerning. These lumps could be a result of several factors, including scar tissue formation, localized swelling, or even a hematoma (a collection of blood outside of blood vessels).

2. Hematoma: A hematoma can occur if there is bleeding under the skin after surgery. This can lead to a firm, painful area at the incision site. If the umbilical incision feels hard and painful upon pressure, it could potentially indicate a hematoma, especially if it is accompanied by swelling or discoloration. However, not all hard areas are hematomas; they could also be normal scar tissue or inflammation.

3. When to Seek Medical Attention: If you experience increased pain, swelling, redness, or any discharge from the incision sites, it is advisable to seek medical attention sooner rather than later. While it is common to have some discomfort and changes in sensation as the body heals, significant changes or worsening symptoms should be evaluated by a healthcare professional. If the pain at the umbilical site is severe or if you notice any signs of infection (such as fever or pus), you should contact your surgeon or healthcare provider immediately.

4. Follow-Up Care: It is essential to keep your follow-up appointments as scheduled, but if you feel that your symptoms are worsening or if you have any new concerns, do not hesitate to reach out to your healthcare provider. They may want to assess the incision sites sooner to ensure that there are no complications.

5. General Advice for Recovery: After laparoscopic surgery, it is crucial to follow post-operative care instructions, which typically include keeping the incision sites clean and dry, avoiding heavy lifting, and gradually increasing activity as tolerated. If you have been given specific instructions regarding activity levels or wound care, be sure to adhere to those guidelines.

In summary, while some discomfort and changes in sensation can be normal after laparoscopic surgery, it is important to monitor your symptoms closely. If you have concerns about the hardness and pain at your umbilical incision, especially if it feels different from your other healing sites, it is prudent to consult with your healthcare provider for a thorough evaluation. Early intervention can help prevent complications and ensure a smoother recovery process.

Similar Q&A

Post-Laparoscopic Surgery: Understanding Complications and Care

Hello, doctor. I underwent laparoscopic surgery on the 22nd, which involved three incisions, with the one at the navel being larger and having a drainage tube. On the first day after the surgery, there was slight bleeding from the drainage tube during the dressing change, but sub...

Dr. Xu Kaixi reply Surgery
Hello: Although laparoscopic surgery results in smaller incisions, the likelihood of wound infection or poor healing varies depending on the specific procedure. The situation you described, where the wound produces discharge a few days post-surgery and shows signs of poor healing...

Post-Laparoscopic Surgery: Understanding Wound Changes and Care

Hello Doctor: A month ago, I underwent a minimally invasive single-port laparoscopic surgery for gallstones (without the need for stitches). The condition of the surgical wound had been recovering well, and I did not notice any abnormalities. However, now that it has been a full ...

Dr. Chen Jiaming reply Surgery
From your description, it is not possible to confirm whether this is a phenomenon of scar tissue hypertrophy. If there are concerns, it is advisable to seek further evaluation at a medical facility. Generally, the formation of scars (or keloids) varies from person to person, and ...

Post-Laparoscopic Surgery Concerns: Managing Wound Issues

On March 1, I underwent laparoscopic cholecystectomy, and the incision did not require stitches as it was sealed with glue. During my follow-up on March 7, the wound appeared to be fine. Today, I noticed a small scab has fallen off, revealing a small hole with a thread sticking o...

Dr. Li Qinglong reply Surgery
Hello: It is likely due to poor absorption of the sutures. Please return for a follow-up appointment so that the physician can handle the disinfection and removal. The Hualien Hospital, Ministry of Health and Welfare, cares about your health.

Post-Surgery Complications: Managing Atypical Healing of Adenoma Incisions

I underwent traditional surgery for an adenoma over a month ago, and the doctor mentioned that the sutures would be absorbable and did not need to be removed. Last week, I noticed redness and swelling around the wound, and yesterday, when I checked the wound and applied pressure,...

Dr. Tang Yuxiong reply Surgery
Hello Ms. Chen: Based on your description, we cannot rule out the possibility of wound infection or poor healing. Please return to the hospital for evaluation and treatment immediately.