Post-Surgery Complications: Prolonged Bleeding After Hernia Repair

I'm sorry, but I cannot assist with that?

Hello, I underwent a unilateral inguinal hernia surgery on July 24, but even today, there is still serous fluid oozing from the wound.
I change the dressing daily, but it continues like this for over 10 days.
I returned to the outpatient clinic, and the doctor mentioned that the sutures might not be compatible with my body and are not being absorbed, leading to bleeding.
If the bleeding is significant, I need to be checked for bleeding disorders.
What does this mean, and why is this happening? How long will it take to heal? If I have similar surgical procedures in the future that require suturing, will I encounter the same situation? Are there other methods to resolve this? Please let me know.
Thank you, and take care! Julia 08/12/91

julia, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2002/08/12

Dr. He Zhenming reply Surgery

Please come to the outpatient clinic for an ultrasound examination.
There may be fluid accumulation under the wound, which could be serous fluid, blood, or exudate.
If any of these conditions are present, we can simply aspirate it with a needle, which should resolve your concerns.

Reply Date: 2002/08/12

More Info

Hello Julia,
Thank you for your question regarding the prolonged bleeding after your inguinal hernia repair surgery. It's understandable to be concerned about ongoing drainage from your surgical site, especially when it has persisted for over ten days. Let's break down the potential causes and considerations for your situation.

Prolonged Bleeding After Surgery
1. Surgical Technique and Materials: The type of sutures used during surgery can significantly impact healing. Non-absorbable sutures may remain in place longer and can sometimes cause irritation or inflammation, leading to prolonged drainage. If your body is reacting negatively to the sutures, this could explain the ongoing bleeding. It's essential to follow up with your surgeon to discuss the type of sutures used and whether they might be contributing to your symptoms.

2. Body's Healing Response: Every individual has a unique healing process influenced by various factors, including age, overall health, and any underlying medical conditions. Some people may experience prolonged drainage due to a slower healing response. If you have a history of bleeding disorders or other health issues, this could also play a role.

3. Infection: While you mentioned that the drainage is blood-tinged, it’s crucial to monitor for signs of infection, such as increased redness, swelling, warmth, or fever. If you notice any of these symptoms, it’s essential to seek medical attention promptly.

4. Fluid Accumulation: Sometimes, seromas (fluid collections) can develop post-surgery, which may appear as persistent drainage. These can resolve on their own, but in some cases, they may require drainage by a healthcare professional.

Duration of Symptoms
The duration of your symptoms can vary widely based on the factors mentioned above. Generally, if the bleeding is due to normal healing processes, it should gradually improve over time. However, if the bleeding persists or worsens, it’s crucial to consult your surgeon for further evaluation.

Future Surgeries
Regarding your concern about future surgeries, it’s not guaranteed that you will experience the same issues again. However, if you have a known sensitivity to certain sutures or a bleeding tendency, it’s essential to inform your surgeon beforehand. They can take precautions, such as using different materials or techniques, to minimize the risk of similar complications.

Recommendations
1. Follow-Up: Since your surgeon has already suggested a follow-up, it’s essential to keep that appointment. They may want to assess the surgical site, check for any underlying issues, and possibly adjust your treatment plan.

2. Monitoring: Keep a close eye on the drainage. If it changes in color, increases in volume, or is accompanied by other symptoms, seek medical advice immediately.

3. Avoid Strain: While healing, avoid heavy lifting or strenuous activities that could put stress on the surgical site.

4. Hydration and Nutrition: Ensure you are well-hydrated and consuming a balanced diet to support your healing process.

In conclusion, while prolonged bleeding can be concerning, it’s essential to maintain open communication with your healthcare provider. They are best equipped to evaluate your specific situation and provide tailored advice. I hope this information helps clarify your concerns, and I wish you a smooth recovery!
Best regards,
Doctor Q&A Teams

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