Caring for surgical wounds
At the end of the operation, the margins of the incision are joined together so that the wound may heal. Follow the treatment steps below:
1. Wash your hands:
Wash and dry hands thoroughly or wear disposable gloves when tending to a surgical wound.
2. Clean the wound:
“Clean the wound under drinking-quality running tap water.
Note: avoid using antiseptic as it may damage the skin and slow healing. Use sterile saline for wound cleansing up to 48 hours after surgery.” 1
3. Dry the skin:
Pat the area dry with a clean towel.
Note: while drying the wound monitor the wound for any signs of infection, such as increased warmth and redness, swelling, increased pain and tenderness, purulent discharge, or unpleasant odor.
4. Stop the bleeding:
If the wound is bleeding, apply gentle pressure to the area with a clean gauze bandage or cloth and elevate the wound until the bleeding stops.
5. Dress the wound:
Apply a sterile adhesive dressing, such as one of the specialized wound dressings below.
The dressing can be changed daily if necessary or whenever it becomes wet or dirty.
- Do not touch or scratch the healing wound with your fingers
- Take care not to touch the inside of the new dressing so that it remains clean
- You may shower safely 48 hours after surgery
When to seek medical advice
A visit to the doctor is necessary if
- the wound shows signs of infection.
- you notice an elevated body temperature (above 99.5 °F).
How to recognize an infected wound
If a wound becomes infected, it may
- become more painful,
- be warm to touch,
- look red or swollen,
- leak some blood-like liquid, pus or blood,
- have an unpleasant smell
If you notice an elevated body temperature (above 37.5 °C) or see any of the signs mentioned, please contact your health care practitioner! 2
When in doubt, see a medical expert
Many common wounds can be dealt with at home. But when should a doctor be consulted? Scroll down for more information!
Expert wound care for surgical wounds
Leukomed® Sorbact®
Bacteria- and fungi-binding surgical dressing ideal for postoperative care.
Leukomed® Control
Transparent, air permeable sterile dressing for dry and low-exuding wounds.
Medical references