Trauma wounds

The scope and importance of traumatic wound care, assessment, debridement, pre- and post-operative management, and subsequent skin care during the course of treatment cannot be over-emphasized, and indeed, are the most important considerations for functional and cosmetic outcome.

Care begins with the emergent phase and continues through acute and convalescent phases. Efforts are directed at methods and techniques which prevent infections, facilitate wound healing, promote comfort, and at the same time, maintain optimal function and minimize deformities.

There are a number of things that you can do to look after your wound to lower your risk of infection and encourage healing:

Changing the dressing: You can leave the original dressing in place for up to 5 days (or as advised by your surgeon) providing that it's dry and not soaked with blood, and that there are no signs of infection. Before you remove the dressing, wash your hands with soap and water and then carefully take the dressing off. Try not to touch the healing wound with your fingers. Your wound may then be left without a dressing. However, you might like to continue wearing a dressing over the area for protection, especially if your clothing rubs against it.
Taking care of stitches: Dissolvable stitches will usually disappear in around 1-3 weeks, but it can take longer, depending on the type of stitches you have. Non-dissolvable stitches are usually removed after 3 to 21 days, depending on the type of operation you have. During this time you may see small pieces of the stitch material poking out of your healing wound. Don't be tempted to pull on these. If there are loose ends that are catching on clothing, you may trim the stitch carefully with a clean pair of scissors. Otherwise wait until they are removed or fall out on their own. If the stitches cause you pain or discomfort, contact your doctor for advice.
Eating and drinking properly: Your body needs energy to heal quickly so it's important that you eat well. Your body will use a lot of energy, vitamins and protein when healing so make sure that you eat a balanced diet. You should also make sure that you drink enough water. If you're dehydrated, your wound may take longer to heal. It's important that you lose any excess weight before your operation, as being overweight can increase the time it takes for your wound to heal.
Showering: It's usually possible for you to have a shower about 48 hours after surgery, but this will depend on the particular operation you have – ask your surgeon.

Some general points to remember are as follows:

Showering is preferable to bathing, so that your wound doesn't soak in water.
Remove any dressing before you have a bath or shower, unless your doctor gives you different advice. Some dressings are waterproof and can be left in place.
Don't use any soap, shower gel, body lotion, talcum powder or other bathing products directly over your healing wound.
You can let the shower water gently splash on to your healing wound. However, don't rub the area, as this might be painful and could delay the healing process.
Only have a bath if your wound can be kept out of the water. Don't soak the area as this might soften the scar tissue and re-open your wound.
Dry the surrounding area carefully by patting it gently with a clean towel but allow your wound to air dry.
If you had surgery on your face, don't wear make-up over the scar until it has fully healed.
Wound Care along with your physician will create a plan of care to assist you as your wounds heal.

Wound Care Center
Regional Rehabilitation Institute
2908 Fifth Street (3rd Floor)
Rapid City, SD 57701
(605) 719-1309

Services are available Monday - Friday from 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.