Question:
WHAT CAN BE DONE FOR POST-OP INCISION SPLITTING?

MR DR. CUT A 2" OPENING IN MY INCISION BEFOR I LEFT THE HOSPITAL TO MAKE SURE THAT WASN'T MY INFECTION PROBLEM. I HAD IT HEALED ONCE, BUT STARTED DOING ABDOMINAL EXERCISES TOO SOON, AND IT SPLIT. HAD IT HEALED AGAIN. THIS WEEK I HAVE DONE A LOT OF HEAVY LIFTING, AND IT SPLIT AGAIN. I AM SO SICK OF GAUZE AND TAPE. ANY SUGGESTIONS?    — Traci G. (posted on June 9, 2000)

June 9, 2000
Sweetie: You have had major surgery. You need to stop lifting and exercising, until you are totally healed. Baby yourself. You will have plenty of time to do all that. If you want to exercise. WALK, it is the best and least damaging exercise. I am 5 years out from VGB surgery and it is my only exercise of choice. I do swim as it is also stress free on joints and is quite enjoyable. Take care and baby your self until you are healed. Avis Gandy
   — Avis G.

June 9, 2000
You should try wearing an abdominal binder. It is very supportive to the area. I was told not to lift anything over 10 pounds for 6 weeks. Take it easy. Your body needs time to heal. Have you tried vitamin "c"? It helps tissues heal faster. Good Luck! Juli
   — Juli T.

June 10, 2000
Traci-I had similar problems and see from your posting that you are in Clinton, Il. I live in Clinton too - if you would like to talk to me direct you can E-mail me at [email protected] - or call me on the phone - I am in the book. Sometimes support close at hand really helps. I can give you information on our area support group too. This too shall pass - even though it is most annoying. Call.
   — Judith D.

June 10, 2000
Yes, I have a suggestion. Stop doing exercises and lifting. If these things are causing problems with your incision, then it's too early to be doing them.
   — Jaye C.