u/Complex-Pat

Hi,

I recently had open-wound surgery.

I have ADHD and take Adderal. I know stimulants can cause vasoconstriction, and I’m wondering whether that could theoretically slow wound healing or affect blood flow to the area.

Has anyone here with ADHD gone through pilonidal open-wound healing while taking Adderall, Vyvanse, Ritalin, or similar meds?

i had open wound surgery. Is it ok to put dry gauze on the wound? I was told to put a bit of the gauze into the wound. They didnt give me saline or anything.

Hi!

I recently had surgery, and my wound was left open to heal. After 4 days I went to the hospital for a wound check and for them to explain me how to do wound care, but it only took around 3 minutes and I barely got any explanation. I also did not receive dressings, so I have to buy everything myself.

I still have a few questions and would like to hear how others handled this during open wound healing:

1. Showering / soap / shampoo The doctor said it is okay if regular shower gel or shampoo foam touches the wound or dressing, as long as I rinse it off well. But I have seen many people here mention special antimicrobial soaps or washes. Did you use regular shower gel, unscented soap, antimicrobial wash? Is it okay to use normal shower gel even if it is scented?
2. Dressing changes after bowel movements I asked whether I should change the dressing after every bowel movement. They said yes if it gets dirty, but generally recommended changing it after bowel movements. How did you personally handle this? If the dressing does not look dirty after a bowel movement, would you still change it anyway? Is changing it 2–3 times a day too much, or is that normal?
3. How often to shower They told me it does not matter as long as I change the wound dressing once daily. How often do you shower?
4. Hair removal around the wound the doctor said I should not shave around the area during the first few weeks. But I have read a lot of people saying that hair control is important. Should I buy something like an eyebrow shaver to gently trim the hair around the area, or should I leave it alone for now?
5. Wet wipes after bowel movements I was told not to use wet wipes. I understand that many wet wipes are scented or contain chemicals, but I am confused because shampoo and shower gel also are scented. Why would regular shampoo/shower gel be okay, but wet wipes are not recommended when cleaning below the wound near the anus? How do you clean your anus after a bowel movement? Are unscented wet wipes ok? I currently take toilet paper and gently dip it in water then clean. Other option would be to rinse it off in the shower then apply a new dressing.
6. Packing / touching inside the wound They briefly said that I should dab a little bit inside the wound with gauze, but I am not sure how deep or how much. How did you know you were doing it correctly?

I know everyone’s surgeon gives different instructions, but I would really appreciate if you could help me out with my questions.

Thanks!