| Subject: |
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Seroma's |
| Name: |
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craig Lundgren |
| Date Posted: |
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Jul 25, 05 - 12:13 AM |
| Email: |
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aboyandhishorse@yahoo.com |
| Message: |
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HEMATOMA & SEROMA
Hematomas are produced by of the invasion of other tissues by blood tissue normally localized inside the vessels. This excess of liquid coagulates, hardens, and delays the work of the red cells that carry oxygen where it is needed, and also impedes the work of the white cells in removing destroyed cells. Also, there is a locally decreased circulation in the invaded tissue, so the activity of the fibroblasts that produce collagen, the support protein, is also delayed. All of these factors can delay healing processes, leading to longer recovery periods and increased dimpling and hardening.
After any surgical procedure, by definition, it takes from six to twelve months to obtain the previous normal texture of the skin in any area of the body, under normal surgical circumstances and without any complications.
For example, a complete recovery from hematoma in the lower eyelids generally takes from three to six months, and during this time a transient deformity such as an ectropion ( a pulled down lower eyelid ) may occur, with consequent possibilities of double vision. In addition to the Hematomas produced by bleeding from larger vessels, bleeding from smaller vessels may produce seromas under the skin of the chin or neck or in the abdominal area. This local deformity maybe seen or felt as a more prominent area with irregular dimples and lumps for up to three months when the lack of normal venous, arterial and lymphatic circulation is impaired In these extreme cases it is necessary to wait longer periods of time to see some improvement.
This excess of hematoma or seroma can be removed by drains within the first few days after surgery or removed by local needle until the quality left in the abdomen, breast or thighs is decreased to around 75cc (10cc in the neck area). When a hematoma is drained pure blood that may coagulate is obtained, while the draining of a seroma produces a bloody liquid that does not clot.
Icing of the affected areas during the first postoperative week is recommended. Local pressure may also be recommended from the first week of surgery up to two months afterwards. As much local massage as possible is useful, beginning approximately three weeks after surgery . Acetaminophen tablets, one every 6 hours, are normally prescribed to reduce pressure, soreness and pain. Sleeping tablets during the first two weeks after surgery allow the patient to rest well, thus reducing swelling and giving the patient energy for the next day. The alternate use of cold and heat also helps, and improves local circulation by opening closed vessels. It is well known that anxiety reduces skin circulation and produces more local bleeding during the first two weeks after surgery. One aspirin a day, after three weeks after surgery, can be also be used if no draining of liquid is occurring
We have to remember also that prior to surgery:
For two weeks before surgery and three weeks afterwards, please avoid smoking and second-hand smoke, aspirin and all aspirin-related products including Motrim and Alka-Seltzer, as well as alcohol and Heparin, all of which promote blood thinning. Eliminating these risks reduces the risk of hematoma or seroma.
Stress, anxiety, bending over or engaging in any activity where increased pressure (such as weight lifting, skiing, running, or and demanding exercise) should be avoided, as should excessive heat from saunas, the sun, and hot water in tubs or showers.
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