Question:
Has anyone developped a post-op infection?

   — Jennifer W. (posted on August 28, 2000)

August 28, 2000
I suffered with a mild infection post op in my incision. This was due to the wound not being cleaned after it opened up a little. My GP said this was not usual and only prescribed mild antibiotics. I was a little itchy and red around the area for a few days but then was fine. If infections are diagnosed quickly there is no danger. I hope this helps. Lynn Speight
   — Lynn S.

August 28, 2000
About two weeks postop I developed a red area at the bottom of my incision. I had an appointment with my PCP anyway so I asked him about it. The area was warm, red and painful so he diagnosed it as cellulitis and gave me antibiotics. I took the antibiotics for about a week and noticed no difference in the area so I called my surgeon's office. They told me to come in that day. My surgeon took one look and said I had an abscess and basically lectured me for not calling him first, instead of asking my PCP. He had to open it up and drain the liquid out (very unpleasant experience!). It healed up fine after that. Moral of the story: If you have any pain, redness, drainage, etc., in the area of your incision call your surgeon immediately!
   — Kellie L.

June 5, 2002
Yes!! I came down with MRSA, but didn't find out until 4 days after I left the hospital. My incision was opened and drained. I now have a home nurse come by 2 times a day to change my dressings on my drainage. VERY PAINFUL. The antibiotic, Zyvox, has been prescribed. In 7 days, my blood will be drawn. If the antibiotic isn't affecting my body adversly, I will finish the last 7 days of Zyvox. If it has, I will have to have an IV pic line put in for 6-8 weeks. I got this infection while in the hospital. PLEASE PLEASE PLEASE make sure your nurses put on clean gloves in your sight and NEVER EVER let them re-apply a part of bandage that has come off!!!!
   — Samantha B.