OK now I'm scared after reading about infections...

[Jwh]

After reading the last couple of posts about infections from the incision area, I'm starting to get concerned.  Should I be applying ointment on the incision daily to be careful?  Did you?  My doctor never mentioned it to me.
Please advise.
Thanks,
Jennifer

[MAlegant]

Hi Jennifer,I
It's so easy to get scared, especially immediately post-op. All doctors have different post-op instructions, I think.  I put no ointment on my incision, just gently washed it each time I washed my hair.  I used Carol's Daughter scar butter (from Sephora) and gently massaged my scar.  It was kind of a creepy feeling, but in the end it healed beautifully.  So, don't worry, but if you're feeling anxious, call the doctor tomorrow to clarify scar care.
Be calm, breathe deep,
Marci

[JohnnyDiaz]

After my first surgery, the Dr.s had to go back and extend the incision due to my complications. I also was never told to put anything on the affected area. I tried left it alone as much as possible. Unless you have pain or notice an issue with the affected area, I wouldn't worry to much about it. If you do notice something strange call the Dr. Hope this helps....

[Jim Scott]

Jennifer:

I was sent home from the hospital with no instructions about 'wound care'.  When the incision began to show signs of infection, the designated caregiver - my wife, 'Nurse' Tina, as I affectionately called her -  phoned the neurosurgeon and he told her to treat it by rubbing Bactidine on the incision ('the wound') and sure enough, it healed right up with no problem.  My wife was upset with the hospital for not giving her any 'wound' care instructions and so was my doctor, but as it healed nicely, we just let that go. 

I wouldn't allow myself to get too worked up over possible infections in the incision but I would suggest you be sure to ask for 'wound care' instructions when you leave the hospital - and follow them to the letter.  At the very least, keeping the 'wound' clean will be a priority and that will likely include some form of antiseptic (such as Bactidine) being applied regularly.  Do that and you should be fine.

Jim

[wendysig]

Hi Jen,
Even if your doc didn't give you any wound care instructions, putting bacitracin on it certainly can't hurt.  My doc had me apply bacitracin both before and after showering.   You should give your doc a call and see what he says  --once again there don't seem to be any hard and fast rules for this --I  know many docs feel keeping the incision clean is all the after carethat is necessary.

Best wishes,
Wendy

[Debbi]

Hi Jen-

Sorry for the late response - I've been away from the Forum for a little while.  If you are at all concerned about infection, please send Dr. Roland an email - or call his office.  He's great, as you know, about responding to email.  As you may know, i did end up with an infection about 2 weeks post op - I emailed Dr. Roland pictures of the incision for several days, had several phone conversations and ultimately ended up back in the hospital for a few days.  I do remember him giving me very specific instructions in terms of what I should use on the incision, so please do ask him.

Sending you good thoughts.

Debbi

[Cheryl R]

Once my stitches were out we had had to clean the incision with peroxide,then wipe with saline solution and then put bacitracin on.     Keep doing till healed.       I would occ get a tiny bit of a scab but no drainage.       This was supposed to be done 3 times a day but usually just done 2 times.       
Every dr and hospital has their own way and protocol.      This was always on my discharge sheet.   
                                                     Cheryl R

[leapyrtwins]

Jen -

don't be concerned about an infection - everyone is different and some of us never get them.  Just follow your doctor's orders. 

Jan

[Jwh]

Called the doctor and he just suggested putting bacitracin on.  Sooooo that's what I did.  I can't believe it's two weeks ago today that I had my surgery.  Glad time is moving pretty quickly

Thanks once again for your advice.  I always  look forward to reading what you have to write

[leapyrtwins]

Bacitracin is good.  I used it after my AN surgery and again after my BAHA surgery.

If you find it's hard to wash out of your hair, skip the shampoo and use Dawn dishing washing detergent.

I kid you not - it works like a charm     We got that little tip from Lori (lori67)

Jan

[Jwh]

Jan - nice tip on the Dawn!  Yes, my hair looks like a grease ball....  Can't seem to manage and get it clean around the incision.  I guess I'm a little afraid of touching the area.

[Pembo]

I didn't use anything for my an surgery but I used baci for my BAHA. And I had to use a lot of Dawn to get my hair clean after the Baha surgery. It definitely worked...