A surgical wound, also known as an incision, is made with a scalpel during surgery. If a surgical wound becomes infected, it requires immediate, specialized care to prevent further complications. Being aware of infection warning signs can help you identify problems early when the infection can be treated most effectively.
If you notice any of these changes around the incision, call your Ohio State doctor immediately:
- Increased redness, bleeding, pain or swelling
- The wound becoming larger or deeper
- Drainage that is cloudy, discolored or foul smelling
- Fever
For some individuals who have underlying medical conditions that affect blood flow, such as diabetes or peripheral arterial disease, surgical wounds may require additional care to heal properly. The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center’s wound care specialists will examine the wound to determine the best treatment options, which can range from antibiotics to treat infections to hyperbaric oxygen therapy or other advanced treatments to help improve healing.
Surgical Dehisced Wounds
Wound dehiscence is a common complication following surgery. It occurs when the surgical incision site does not heal properly.
Symptoms of a dehisced wound include:
- An open wound at the surgical suture site
- Pain at the suture site
- Infection, discharge or bleeding at the suture site
- Broken sutures
If you experience any of these symptoms, visit your Ohio State physician immediately or contact Ohio State's Comprehensive Wound Center.
Our Comprehensive Wound Center specialists are experts at diagnosing and treating dehisced wounds. Our multidisciplinary team of wound care professionals has the expertise to perform minimally invasive vascular techniques and even the most complex reconstructive surgery to treat them. Wound care experts work closely with specialists in gastroenterology, gynecology, surgery and plastic surgery to provide comprehensive care.