2weeks post op

I am 2 weeks postop. I had my hysterectomy on Jan 31,2001.After reading various posts on this site i realize that the pain and aches i have are all common and part of the slow recovery. I had staples which were taken out by the doctor a few days after the surgery. But he left a small incisional opening about half the length of an adult females little pinkey finger on my abdomon. At first in the hospital it was covered up with bandages, but by the time i went home he told me to leave it uncovered. When i asked why the entire area had not been stapeled, he said it was for drainage of any fluid that builds up there. The first week it drained constantly and now only occassionally maybe every few days. I was wondering if anyone else had heard of this or had something similiar. The doctor told me that within a few weeks the area will close up and the drainage will stop.

thanks for listining
Sheri
Total hysterectomy on Jan31,2001
[Edited by SheriO on 02-16-2001]

Hi Sheri

I had TAh on 1/22/01 and had the staples too which were removed one week exactly. However, my surgeon did not leave any opening to drain. I read your post earlier but didn't reply because I didn't have an answer but posting now to put the question at top of list so hopefully someone that can help will answer.

How about posting with a subject title more like "have a question about incision opening" that might draw more attention to your actual question from sisters who have knowledge of this.

Wishing you a great recovery. Denise

After reading your post I can't help but wonder if you have a small hematoma or seroma internally just under that site along the incision line. As long as there's no odor or colored drainage and your temperature is OK it doesn't sound like a wound infection. Especially as your MD is well aware it is there.

I had a TAH with BSO 1/15/01 and I too had staples placed. My staples were removed at Day 5 prior to my discharge home and I have never had a problem.

I would think your best bet would be to ask the MD what is going on and don't back down til he tells you what's what--he isn't the one having to live with the drainage. Was a problem encountered during the surgery? What is causing the drainage? Can you feel anything yourself when you carefully press on the affected area? Does more drainage come out when you do press down? Did your MD attempt a vaginal hyst but couldn't do it and had to switch to an abdominal approach during the surgery??

Rest, drink your fluids, take your medication for discomfort as you need to. Call you MD and find out what is happening. Hopefully, you will be seen in the MD office again shortly...

I have been here for 9 months and I have never heard of this. But thats not to say it hasnt happened. I am not able to read all the posts. But I really would inquire from the Dr why there needed to be drainage.
Blessings