A surgical wound requires special care and love, while we would all want to recover soon, it is also important to understand that each body is different and will take its own time to recover especially post-surgery. However, before we jump on to some tips on speeding up the recovery process and how to heal stitches faster after surgery, let’s understand the terminology of a surgical wound.
What is a surgical wound?
A surgical wound is a cut or incision made into the skin by a scalpel during surgery. Surgical wounds vary considerably, and it all depends on the nature of the surgery. It is essential to care for a surgical wound and not let it be susceptible to infections. A surgical wound is repaired with the use of sutures. There are various types of surgical wounds as well; let’s take a look at them:
- Class 1: These wounds don’t show any infection or signs of inflammation; they are well on their way toward recovery and are clean.
- Class 2: These wounds are clean, but they are susceptible to getting infected due to their location. They are considered to be clear-contaminated. One must take exceptional care of these wounds.
- Class 3: In this case, an external object has contacted the skin, increasing the chances of disease. A gunshot wound, for example, will be considered class 3 and at high risk of infection.
- Class 4: these wounds are dirty and may have been exposed to faecal matter.
Now that we’ve understood the terminologies, it’s time to answer the various questions that one may have when dealing with a surgical wound. Most wounds may have an adhesive wound dressing; this keeps the wound safe and secure. However, the treatment for wound healing goes beyond that.
- One often faces the question, how to heal operation wounds faster? Well, here’s a tip! It is always advised to have a helping hand from a friend, family member or nurse to help you with the adhesive wound dressing. However, if you don’t have anybody around and are changing your own dressing, you should make sure to wash your hands with an antiseptic soap before and after changing the dressing.
- Clean the skin around the wound with a soft cloth or gauze. One must not use any soap, alcohol or peroxide solution to clean the wound. This can also delay the healing and potentially hurt the wound, which is why it is advised to use a fixation tape to keep the wound secure and external substances away. However, you must also take your doctor’s advice, as he may allow you to remove the bandage and clean the wound or any pus that may be draining out.
- The third tip under the wound care procedure is to keep your wound dry for the first twenty-four hours or more (as per your doctor’s suggestions). It is okay not to take a bath or shower; you may opt for a sponge bath; however, leave the wound undisturbed and be soft and gentle in your approach.
- The treatment for wound healing extends to taking rest as well; you must rest amply and limit your activities. Don’t do heavy-duty exercises or pick up heavy weights. In fact, bed rest is the best medicine to heal wound. It is crucial to have a conversation in this regard with your doctor. If you do plan on moving around, make sure that you use a wound plaster that keeps the wound secure. In case you engage in some movement and the cut opens up, call up your doctor.
- Sometimes the wound may bleed and the plaster or bandage may turn red or start leaking. In this case, gently replace the soiled dressing. If the bleeding does not stop, apply some pressure, which should contain the bleeding. However, if the bleeding continues or a stitch has opened, you should visit a doctor without delay.
- You should call the doctor if the wound starts to become too painful, starts oozing pus, starts to smell bad, or you get a fever of above 100 degrees for over four hours. These symptoms shouldn’t be taken lightly. Remember, regular advice from the doctor is also an essential part of your treatment for wound healing.
While surgical wounds often appear scary, with timely consultations from the doctor and taking care of yourself using the above wound care procedure, you’ll heal in no time. Make sure to use clean hands and tools (like scissors) every time you use fixation tapes and plasters.
Disclaimer - Please note that the above recommendations are general care tips. Consult a health care professional in case of any uncertainty around wound treatment and healing.
Always see your doctor if a wound is deep, bleeding profusely or shows signs of infection. For diabetic patients especially, proper wound care holds the utmost importance. Do not hesitate to discuss any concerns you may have with your doctor or your podiatrist, even when it comes to minor wounds and cuts – especially if they’re on your feet.
The information provided through this website should not be used to diagnose or treat a health problem or disease. Although compiled with great care, it is not a substitute for professional advice. If you have or suspect a health problem, consult your doctor immediately.