Surgical Wound Care Services

Surgical Wound Care Treatment

Proper care of surgical wounds is essential to minimize the risk of infection, promote healing, and achieve the best possible surgical outcome. At BH Wound Care, our certified wound care specialists offer professional, comprehensive care of surgical wounds, as well as education and instruction for at-home wound care to prevent infection and other complications. Schedule a consultation for surgical wound care treatment in Portland, OR; Los Angeles, CA; Vancouver, WA; or Nashville, TN.

What Is a Surgical Wound?

Surgical wounds are incisions made by healthcare professionals during medical surgical procedures. They can vary in size and may be closed with stitches, sutures, staples, clips, or glue. Because surgical wounds are made in a sterile environment, your risk of infection is lower. However, when you leave the sterile environment and care for your wound on your own, you are at risk of contamination and infection. Proper wound care is essential in preventing surgical site infections and complications.

Different Types of Surgical Wounds

Surgical wounds are intentional cuts made through the skin and underlying tissues to access internal structures during surgical procedures. There are four types of surgical wounds, and they are categorized by the level of contamination at the time the surgical procedure is performed:

• Clean Wounds – These are surgical incisions made under sterile conditions, posing a minimal risk of infection.
• Clean-contaminated Wounds – These wounds involve the opening of a body cavity with controlled contamination, such as in abdominal surgeries.
• Contaminated Wounds – These wounds involve a significant risk of infection due to exposure to microorganisms. These wounds often result from accidental injury or surgeries involving infected areas.
• Infected Wounds – These are wounds that show clinical signs of infection at the time of surgery.

Best Methods of Post-Surgery Wound Management

Proper care of surgical wounds after the procedure is crucial to facilitate healing and prevent complications. Follow these essential guidelines:

• Keep the Wound Clean and Dry – Avoid getting the wound wet for at least 48 hours after surgery to allow proper healing. After this initial period, gently wash the wound with mild soap and water and pat it dry.
• Change Dressings as Directed – Your healthcare provider will advise on how often to change the dressing. Follow their instructions carefully to keep the wound clean and protected.
• Monitor for Signs of Infection – Keep an eye out for redness, swelling, increasing pain, or the presence of pus or foul odor. If you notice any signs of infection, contact your healthcare provider immediately.
• Follow Medication Instructions – Take prescribed medications, such as antibiotics or pain relievers, as directed by your doctor to prevent infection and manage post-operative discomfort.
• Avoid Disturbing Stitches or Staples – Refrain from touching or picking at stitches or staples. They will be removed by your healthcare provider at the appropriate time.
• Proper Wound Protection – Avoid tight clothing or accessories that could rub against the wound, and protect it from direct sunlight to prevent scarring.
• Maintain a Healthy Diet – A balanced diet rich in nutrients, especially proteins and vitamin C, supports the body’s healing process.
• Limit Physical Activity – Follow your surgeon’s guidelines on restrictions for physical activity and avoid strenuous exercises or heavy lifting until you are cleared to do so.
• Quit Smoking – If you smoke, consider quitting, as smoking can delay wound healing and increase the risk of complications.

Complications of Poor Wound Management

Seek medical attention if you notice any of these warning signs or symptoms of an infected surgical wound:

• The wound becomes red, swollen, or increasingly painful
• There is a presence of pus or foul-smelling discharge
• The wound edges separate, or the incision opens up
• You develop a fever

Tips for Preventing Surgical Site Infections

A surgical site infection can delay wound healing, increase your risk of a scar, and threaten your overall health. The best methods of preventing surgical site infections are:

• Always wash your hands before and after you touch a wound
• Follow the aftercare instructions you are given
• Keep the wound site clean and dry
• Take all medications as prescribed
• Maintain a healthy diet and avoid using tobacco or alcohol
• Do not allow others to touch your wound unless they have washed their hands or are wearing sterile gloves
• Consult a physician or wound care specialist if you notice any signs of infection or complication

Surgical Scar Care Therapy

After your wound has healed, you may notice a scar forming at the surgical site. Follow these tips to promote healthy scar formation and minimize scarring:

• Keep the Scar Clean – Gently wash the scar with mild soap and water.
• Moisturize – Apply a gentle, hypoallergenic moisturizer to keep the scar hydrated.
• Massage the Scar – Once the wound has fully closed, gently massage the scar with clean hands to encourage softening and flexibility.
• Protect From Sun Exposure – Avoid direct sunlight on the scar and use sunscreen if sun exposure is unavoidable.

Our Surgical Wound Care Treatment Options

At BH Wound Care, our highly skilled, certified wound care specialists use state-of-the-art technology and the latest techniques in wound care innovation to optimize wound healing and improve overall health. We take a comprehensive approach to surgical wound care treatment, providing holistic solutions and personalized treatment plans. Our goal is to maintain your health, comfort, and safety so that you can receive the wound care you need. Our surgical wound care treatment options include:

• Wound evaluation and assessment
• Wound debridement and cleaning
• Ongoing wound care
• Education and instruction on home wound care
• Dressing and bandage services
• Hyperbaric oxygen therapy for wound healing
• Negative pressure wound therapy
• Vacuum-assisted wound healing
• Compression stockings for wound healing

Schedule a Consultation for Wound and Incision Healing Treatments

With care and patience, surgical wounds can heal effectively, allowing you to resume your daily activities and enjoy a healthy, well-recovered life. At BH Wound Care, we can help you care for your surgical wounds and reduce your risk of infections and complications. If you notice symptoms of complications at the site of your surgical incision or are not capable of caring for your wound on your own, call us now or reach out to us online for wound and incision healing treatment in Portland, OR; Los Angeles, CA; Vancouver, WA; or Nashville, TN.