Question:
i have a good tip on wound care

when i had breast surgery about 3 years ago this is what my doctor told me to do so that my wound would heal better. after you bath, use your hairdryer on low heat and dry your wound completely before dressing it. keeping the wound moist can help infection grow that is why drying it out is a very good idea. i had open rny on 8-2003 and where my wound was looks great. i don't even have any staple marks anymore and the lower half of the incision is almost faded. i also use a cream on it that has retin-A.    — franbvan (posted on January 7, 2004)

January 6, 2004
While drying a wound will prevent bacteria from growing, it will also prevent granulation tissue (new skin cells) from forming. Many doctors are not aware of newer ways of treating wounds to promote healing. Sounds like your wound was not particularly deep, and healed up regardless. The idea of drying the wound may work of some, but I can tell you from years of experience as a home health nurse, that sometimes wounds need to remain moist and undisturbed for 2-3 days at a time, depending on the type and location of the wound. (Other types of wounds need to have the dressing changed 2-3 times a day.) Bottom line, though, is to follow your own doctor's recommendations.
   — koogy

January 7, 2004
I also 'assist' the healking of my incision, (and any other cuts to the skin) by applying Vit. E oil, directly to the wound to hasten the healing process. I also moisten the area with liberal doses of cocoa butter cream/lanolin/Vit. e/aloe/ lotions, mixed together. I am at 2 months out and the scars is jest barely noticeable, and has no interior tension or pulling from scarification.
   — track

January 7, 2004
You need to talk to a wound care specialist. They know what they are doing and they can really get bad if not taken care of right. Seen some nasty wounds. Do what your doctor says. Or call the hosp. and talk to the wound care dept. They know alot. Best of luck.
   — stacy A.

January 7, 2004
poster here: maybe i used the wrong wording. when i wrote wound i was talking about the incision that you come home from the hospital with following OPEN RNY. not if you have one open up and it needs special care for a professional. i didn't even get mine wet untill about 1 week post-op so it as closed and not an open wound.
   — franbvan