Wound separation

[justscore]

Me again........It appears I am experiencing wound separation for the 2nd time on the same incision location.
2 yrs ago it only opened on the middle about 2 inches and closed after 12 weeks of everyday cleaning and packing at the Dr's office. This time he left the staples in longer, surgery was 2 and 1/2 weeks ago and I still have some staples. This time my incision started separating in the middle and now one side has joined. I am NOT a happy camper and am very frustrated. My husband is to clean out the wound twice a day and I go back to the Dr everyday next week for treatment.
What causes this? He thought that last time was a fluke and everything would be ok this time. Things even started out better this time. I have been on bed rest and not moving around much. I am so careful about washing my hands and changing/bleaching my sheets often. I am so discouraged and was wondering if anyone else had this happen. I know Simply Star(?) had a son that experienced this.
What can I do to help the healing? I am not diabetic and have never had a problem other than these 2 experiences.

Thanks for any advice you can give.


***I posted this a a comment in the wrong topic earlier......sorry.

[SimplyStar]

Did a little research on your problem, the medical term is  dehiscence   Just type that in search and read several articals about it.  Seems like one says a certain protein might be lacking, another says cigerette smoking slows healing,  also skin and muscle  "thin" from previous surgery might slow the healing.  My sons was because his belly was so big.. Sometimes it seems they must go back and resew the incision up using non desolving stitches. There are several good articles there to read.  Good Luck.

[lucymullis]

I am so sorry.  Following my surgery, my wound completely opened.  I certainly know how terrible it is.  Have you used a wound vac?  It's a pain but did make mine heal faster.  I sure hope you feel better soon.

[justscore]

What is a wound vac?

SS - I am not a smoker - never have been. I wonder about the protien tho.

Good ques for me to ask tomorrow - thanks

[Best59]

I find on the Internet:
http://www.lni.wa.gov/ClaimsIns/Files/OMD/WOUNDVAC.pdf

[TealSupporter]

My sister used a wound vac for a few days and they make them portable now to where you can carry it with you like a compact purse;)  It makes a humming noise that can be considered soothing or very annoying depending up how you look at it!

I hope that helps!  I know packing is a pain...maybe ask your doctor if you're a candidate for the wound vac;)

love,
meg
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