Can Appendicitis Recur After Appendectomy? Understanding Post-Surgery Pain
Are there complications associated with appendectomy? I'm sorry to hear that you're experiencing discomfort. After an appendectomy, it is uncommon for the appendix to become inflamed again, as it is typically removed during the surgery. However, it is possible to experi...
Dr. Lin Zhiguang reply Surgery
Hello, the likelihood of appendicitis recurring 2 to 3 years after an appendectomy is low, with only a small number of cases resulting in localized abscesses. If there is a fever, you may ask your doctor to arrange a CT scan for confirmation. The most common cause of pain after s...[Read More] Can Appendicitis Recur After Appendectomy? Understanding Post-Surgery Pain
Post-Appendectomy Care: Understanding Pain and Swelling After Surgery
Postoperative Care for Peritonitis Surgery My father developed peritonitis due to appendicitis and was discharged one week after surgery. It has been two weeks since the laparoscopic surgery, but there is some pain and a slight swelling in the lower right incision. Is this normal...
Dr. Lin Zhiguang reply Surgery
Hello, if your wound is painful and swollen, it may sometimes be due to an infection, commonly referred to as an "abscess." Wounds from peritonitis are particularly prone to this. If the infection is mild, it may improve within a few days. However, if there is increasin...[Read More] Post-Appendectomy Care: Understanding Pain and Swelling After Surgery
Managing Post-Surgery Pain and Constipation After Hemorrhoid Surgery
Surgical excision of a mole? On October 4th of this year, I underwent surgery for a stage three anal fissure, as recommended by my doctor, using traditional surgical methods. He mentioned that I would recover in ten days, but I occasionally forgot to take the stool softener for a...
Dr. Lin Zhiguang reply Surgery
The side effects of stool softeners are generally low, and some patients with constipation may use them long-term without significant concerns. After surgery for a mole, it is common to experience some bleeding and swelling at the wound site for the first couple of months; this s...[Read More] Managing Post-Surgery Pain and Constipation After Hemorrhoid Surgery
Should My Child See a Pediatric Surgeon or Dermatologist for a 2cm Scalp Cyst?
A hard cyst approximately 2 cm on the scalp? Hello Dr. Lin, my daughter is currently 3 years old. Recently, while washing her hair, I discovered a hard cyst approximately 2 cm in size on the scalp behind her right ear. Should we see a pediatric surgeon or a dermatologist for this...
Dr. Lin Zhiguang reply Surgery
Hello Goethe, there is a possibility of a cyst on the scalp, specifically a sebaceous cyst (epidermoid cyst). Some may be related to the ear canal, but a consultation is necessary for a definitive diagnosis. Both pediatric surgery and dermatology should be able to provide a diagn...[Read More] Should My Child See a Pediatric Surgeon or Dermatologist for a 2cm Scalp Cyst?
Understanding Complex Fistulas: Surgery Risks and Treatment Options
Regarding fistulas? I apologize, but I have seen many doctors. Later, after my visit to Chang Gung, they told me that I have a complex type of fistula, and surgery would carry risks, including potential damage to the sphincter, so they advised against surgery. However, I read onl...
Dr. Lin Zhiguang reply Surgery
Hello, most fistulas require surgery for a complete cure. In most cases, there are methods to avoid damaging the sphincter, unless it is a high fistula. However, it is still important to identify the underlying cause and treat it accordingly. I recommend that you come in for an o...[Read More] Understanding Complex Fistulas: Surgery Risks and Treatment Options
Managing Chronic Anal Fissures: Treatment Options and Safety Concerns
Chronic anal fissure Hello, doctor. I have been a long-term chronic anal fissure patient and have visited several small hospitals (with internal examinations). The doctors said that adjusting my lifestyle and dietary habits along with sitz baths would help improve my condition. H...
Dr. Lin Zhiguang reply Surgery
Hello, you are using hemorrhoid ointment, which is not something I usually prescribe. However, applying it for a few weeks generally does not have a significant impact on the body, as it is for local use and the absorption into the body is minimal. Vaseline may not be very effect...[Read More] Managing Chronic Anal Fissures: Treatment Options and Safety Concerns
Understanding Nail Issues: When to Seek Medical Help for Infections
Nail problems My son injured his foot, but there was no obvious wound. However, after some time, the area around his toenail started to develop pus. I made a small incision in the skin to try to drain the pus and applied medication immediately. However, his foot not only did not ...
Dr. Lin Zhiguang reply Surgery
Hello, based on your description, it seems to be paronychia, which is a bacterial infection around the toenail. You should see a general surgeon or a pediatric surgeon. The incidence of cellulitis is not high, but sometimes partial nail removal is necessary for complete resolutio...[Read More] Understanding Nail Issues: When to Seek Medical Help for Infections
Painful Lump on Wrist: Which Specialist Should You See?
If you have a lump on your wrist and are unsure which specialist to see, you should consider visiting an orthopedic doctor or a hand specialist? Hello: I have a lump on my wrist (below the thumb) that is palpable and painful when touched. It has been there for over a year now, wh...
Dr. Lin Zhiguang reply Surgery
Hello, based on your description, it is more likely to be a ganglion cyst. It is a benign tumor that arises from the joint capsule and can be surgically removed, but it has a higher recurrence rate compared to other tumors. As for whether it could be something else, such as an ep...[Read More] Painful Lump on Wrist: Which Specialist Should You See?
Understanding Phimosis: When to Consider Circumcision and What to Expect
Phimosis How can one determine if they have phimosis? Under what circumstances is circumcision necessary, and when is the most appropriate time to perform the procedure? What type of circumcision surgery is currently performed? Is hospitalization required for the surgery? How lon...
Dr. Lin Zhiguang reply Surgery
Hello, generally, unless there is obvious phimosis, which means the glans cannot be fully exposed and may affect future fertility, or recurrent balanitis, circumcision is usually not necessary. The timing for circumcision is not fixed and depends on the clinical situation. Local ...[Read More] Understanding Phimosis: When to Consider Circumcision and What to Expect
Understanding Fever Related to Hemorrhoids: A Case Study
Regarding the issue of hemorrhoids causing fever? I have mild hemorrhoids and previously visited a large hospital for an examination. The doctor advised that I just need to pay attention to my lifestyle and apply some medication, and that surgery is not necessary. I also underwen...
Dr. Lin Zhiguang reply Surgery
Hello, general rectal bleeding is often caused by hemorrhoids or anal fissures. However, it is quite rare to have accompanying symptoms such as fever and chills indicating an infection. During an episode, a computed tomography (CT) scan can be considered to rule out the presence ...[Read More] Understanding Fever Related to Hemorrhoids: A Case Study
Understanding Diarrhea: Causes, Symptoms, and When to Seek Help
Diarrhea? Hello Doctor: I have a tendency to have excessive stomach acid and poor digestion, and I eat very little fruit. I would like to inquire about my condition. On the morning of August 15, I experienced symptoms of acute gastroenteritis, including vomiting and diarrhea. Aft...
Dr. Lin Zhiguang reply Surgery
Hello, your symptoms are quite consistent with acute gastroenteritis, and it seems you have not fully recovered yet. It is recommended to eat small, frequent meals and consume liquids or easily digestible foods. This is an acute condition and is not closely related to diseases of...[Read More] Understanding Diarrhea: Causes, Symptoms, and When to Seek Help
Understanding Long Colon and Its Impact on Constipation: Surgical Options Explained
Long colon leading to constipation? Hello, doctor. I have a condition of elongated colon and a twisted sigmoid colon. I have visited Chang Gung Memorial Hospital in Kaohsiung, and the doctor recommended a total colectomy. I would like to ask, is it absolutely necessary to perform...
Dr. Lin Zhiguang reply Surgery
Hello, if you have been suffering from chronic constipation for a long time and have not responded to several years of medication, a total colectomy may be an effective option. Typically, the rectum is preserved while the colon is removed, and the small intestine is connected to ...[Read More] Understanding Long Colon and Its Impact on Constipation: Surgical Options Explained
Understanding Persistent Anal Issues: Fistula or Folliculitis?
Is it an anal fistula? I apologize for the inconvenience, but I would like to inquire about something. About six months ago, I developed a lump on my buttocks, and I underwent incision and drainage. It healed, but the wound turned into a small pit that occasionally oozes pus and ...
Dr. Lin Zhiguang reply Surgery
Hello, because you only underwent incision and drainage, if it is folliculitis or another type of subcutaneous abscess, it may not fully heal. The farther away from the anus, the lower the likelihood of an anal fistula, but it cannot be completely ruled out; further examination i...[Read More] Understanding Persistent Anal Issues: Fistula or Folliculitis?
Understanding Compression Socks: Choosing the Right Fit for Your Needs
Could you please provide more context or specify what you would like to know about socks? Doctor: Excuse me! I have noticed that the blood vessels in my ankle are slightly protruding, and there seems to be an increasing tendency for small vascular branches. I do not have diabetes...
Dr. Lin Zhiguang reply Surgery
Hello, if your blood vessels are slightly prominent, with an increasing number of small vascular branches and instances of thigh vessel rupture, it does not necessarily indicate varicose veins, especially if there is no significant pain or swelling. Compression stockings are prim...[Read More] Understanding Compression Socks: Choosing the Right Fit for Your Needs
Choosing the Best Compression Socks for Work: A Guide to Paul Hart Products
Purchase compression stockings? I heard that Paul Hartmann's products are good, and I'm interested in buying their compression stockings for work. Which type would be better? Are toe-covered stockings more effective than those without toe coverage? Are they less likely ...
Dr. Lin Zhiguang reply Surgery
Hello, I am not familiar with the products of that brand, so I cannot comment. If compression stockings are intended for varicose veins, they primarily focus on the calves. However, if the concern is due to diabetes and there is a need to avoid toe injuries, then toe-covered opti...[Read More] Choosing the Best Compression Socks for Work: A Guide to Paul Hart Products
Thyroid Tumors: When Is Surgery Necessary for 0.7 cm Growth?
Thyroid tumor Hello, doctor. I would like to ask if a thyroid enlargement of about 0.7 cm requires surgical treatment. Will it affect swallowing function? Some doctors suggest monitoring, while others recommend removal. I would like to know at what size surgery is typically recom...
Dr. Lin Zhiguang reply Surgery
Hello, when considering whether to perform surgery for thyroid enlargement, two main factors should be taken into account: first, the need to rule out malignancy, and second, the presence of significant thyroid hormone imbalance. The decision is not solely based on size. A 0.7 cm...[Read More] Thyroid Tumors: When Is Surgery Necessary for 0.7 cm Growth?
Should You Keep Using Adhesive After Stitches Removal? Expert Advice
Wound after suture removal? Doctor, I had my stitches removed and have been using silicone gel on the wound for three weeks. Recently, I've been feeling some itching and swelling. Should I continue using it? Thank you.
Dr. Lin Zhiguang reply Surgery
Hello, after removing the stitches, it is generally recommended to keep the scar covered with silicone gel for at least two weeks. You have been using it for three weeks, so it is fine to stop now. It is normal for the wound to feel itchy and slightly swollen. As long as there is...[Read More] Should You Keep Using Adhesive After Stitches Removal? Expert Advice
Understanding Fistula Recurrence Rates After Surgery
Fistula recurrence rate Hello, doctor; I would like to ask you. A year ago, I underwent a fistula surgery at another hospital. This April, I started feeling pain and swelling near my buttocks. Could this possibly be related to the fistula? Is it possible for it to recur even afte...
Dr. Lin Zhiguang reply Surgery
Fistulas may sometimes recur because the internal opening has healed, making it difficult to locate during surgery. If a recurrence does occur, surgery is necessary to accurately identify the internal opening and open it, which will help prevent further recurrences.[Read More] Understanding Fistula Recurrence Rates After Surgery
Understanding Umbilical Bleeding: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment Options
Umbilical bleeding Hello Doctor, I have been experiencing bleeding from my navel for a long time, and the cause is unclear. Before the bleeding occurs, I feel a dull pain about 2 to 3 centimeters above the navel, and then after 1 to 2 days, bleeding happens. This usually occurs m...
Dr. Lin Zhiguang reply Surgery
Hello, your condition sounds like an umbilical abscess. It is likely caused by fecal matter trapped deep in the umbilicus, leading to recurrent inflammation. If medication and topical treatments are ineffective, surgical debridement should be considered to remove the obstruction.[Read More] Understanding Umbilical Bleeding: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment Options
Understanding Anal Fissures and Warts: A Patient's Journey
Anal issues Hello Doctor: I originally had a problem with recurrent anal fissures, which were acute. Around the time of the Lunar New Year, I noticed a small piece of tissue at the site of the fissure. At first, I didn't think much of it, but later I realized that the fissur...
Dr. Lin Zhiguang reply Surgery
Hello, anal fissures can lead to the development of some polyps on the outer side, known as anal papillae. Typically, there are no obvious symptoms. To determine whether your lesion is a papilla or a wart, it needs to be examined. If it is a wart and does not improve with medicat...[Read More] Understanding Anal Fissures and Warts: A Patient's Journey