Post-Varicocele Surgery: Concerns About Stitches Left Inside

Surgical Stitch Issues in Varicocele Repair

Hello, Doctor Hsu: I had varicocele surgery two days ago and had one stitch.
After four days, the stitch area became very itchy, so I cut the thread, but a small segment of about 0.5 cm was left inside.
I would like to ask if this will affect the healing of the wound? Is the stitch located in the abdominal wall? Will it be expelled from the body due to rejection? Will it hinder the recovery of the spermatic vein? Should I have it removed? I have many questions, thank you for your response.

Jie, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2015/09/10

Dr. Xu Weikai reply Urology

Hello, if non-absorbable materials are used for sutures, individuals who are more sensitive may experience local irritation, and in severe cases, it could lead to local inflammation and the formation of granulation tissue as side effects.
Some individuals may expel the suture ends due to tissue reaction.
However, most people do not have significant reactions to such materials and experience little to no discomfort.
There are no needles left in the body, only the sutures.
Whether to remove them can be decided based on the occurrence of any complications later on.
Additionally, you can discuss with the surgeon whether removal is necessary.
If there are any unclear points, feel free to ask again for further discussion and research.
Online responses should only serve as a reference; if necessary, it is best to seek medical attention at a healthcare facility.
The Ministry of Health and Welfare Taitung Hospital cares about you.

Reply Date: 2015/09/10

More Info

Post-varicocele surgery, concerns about stitches left inside the body can be quite common among patients. After undergoing a varicocele repair, it is understandable to have questions regarding the healing process and the implications of any remaining sutures.
Firstly, it is important to clarify that the type of stitches used during surgery can vary. In many cases, surgeons use absorbable sutures that are designed to dissolve over time, typically within a few weeks to months. If the stitch you mentioned is indeed absorbable, it is unlikely to cause any long-term issues, and your body will naturally break it down. However, if the stitch is non-absorbable and has been left inside, it may require further evaluation.

Regarding your specific concerns:
1. Impact on Wound Healing: A small portion of suture left inside (0.5 cm) is generally not expected to significantly impact the healing of the surgical site. However, if the stitch is causing irritation or if there are signs of infection (such as increased redness, swelling, or discharge), it would be prudent to consult your surgeon.

2. Location of the Stitch: If the stitch was placed in the abdominal wall, it is important to monitor the area for any signs of complications. If the stitch is deep within the tissue and not causing any discomfort, it may not need to be removed. However, if it is superficial and causing itching or irritation, your surgeon may recommend its removal.

3. Rejection and Expulsion: The body can sometimes react to foreign materials, including stitches. If a non-absorbable stitch is left in and the body rejects it, there is a possibility that it could work its way out through the skin. This is more common with superficial stitches than with those placed deeper in the tissue.

4. Effect on Recovery: A retained stitch is unlikely to impede the recovery of the spermatic cord or the varicocele repair itself. However, if you experience persistent pain, swelling, or any unusual symptoms, it is essential to follow up with your healthcare provider.

5. Should You Have It Removed?: If you are concerned about the stitch, especially if it is causing discomfort or if you have any doubts about its nature (absorbable vs. non-absorbable), it is advisable to consult your surgeon. They can assess the situation and determine whether removal is necessary.

In summary, while having a small portion of a stitch left inside after varicocele surgery is not uncommon, it is essential to monitor for any signs of complications. If you have any concerns or experience unusual symptoms, do not hesitate to reach out to your healthcare provider for further evaluation and guidance. Your recovery and peace of mind are paramount, and your surgeon is the best resource for addressing these concerns.

Similar Q&A

Post-Surgery Concerns: Pain, Stitches, and Healing After Varicocele Surgery

1. I had left-sided varicocele surgery a month ago. Is it normal to still experience some pain in the testicle if I move around too much? 2. The surgical wound has healed, but there are some short white thread ends protruding. Will they absorb on their own? Is there a risk of i...

Dr. Du Shixi reply Urology
Hello: 1) Postoperative pain is normal as long as it is not severe. 2) If you notice white thread-like structures, you should see a doctor, as this can occasionally happen. 3) It is common for the area under the wound to feel hard, but it will soften over time. However, if it bec...

Concerns About Retained Surgical Staples After Circumcision: What to Know

Last December, I underwent a circumcision surgery. A month later, I returned to the hospital where the doctor removed several stitches. After another two weeks, I discovered that there were still some stitches left, so I went back to have those removed as well. Since then, the sw...

Dr. Du Shixi reply Urology
Hello: The physician's advice is also valid, and surgical removal can be considered. Retained hardware in the body is not a normal occurrence, but it is not very uncommon either. If the wound has healed and there are no signs of redness, swelling, pain, or infection, this si...

Why Isn't My Varicocele Surgery Wound Healing Properly?

Doctor, it has been almost a month since I had varicocele surgery. The wound is about 3 centimeters long, but for some reason, the middle part of the wound hasn't healed and there are two small holes that sometimes bleed. Could there be something inside causing inflammation?...

Dr. Xu Weikai reply Urology
Hothot235: Hello, I would like to consider two scenarios: 1. Wound infection, which means that the wound may have come into contact with water or other substances, leading to infection. 2. Allergic reaction to the sutures, which indicates an allergic response to the stitching mat...

Post-Surgery Concerns: Poor Healing of Groin Incision After Surgery

Hello, doctor. Two weeks ago, I had surgery to remove an abscess in my groin due to recurrent inflammation and infection, and I had several stitches. This afternoon, I went for a follow-up appointment, and the doctor indicated that the wound has not healed, but the stitches were ...

Dr. Chen Bingze reply Surgery
Hello, removing the sutures and allowing the wound to be open for dressing changes sounds fine. You can return for a follow-up appointment next week.