If an incision separates, cover it with clean sterile gauze and contact the surgical team immediately. Do not push tissue back in, pack the opening, use peroxide or alcohol, or close it with household tape or glue. Call 911 if internal tissue or organs are visible, bleeding is heavy, or the person is faint, confused, or having trouble breathing.
Wash your hands, avoid touching the incision, and place clean sterile gauze over it. Reduce strain on the area and follow the surgeon’s instructions about movement. If tissue is protruding, do not push it back; cover it gently with clean material and call 911.
Even a small new gap should be reported because the team knows which tissues were closed and whether urgent examination is needed. Describe when it opened, the approximate size, drainage or bleeding, pain, fever, and any event such as coughing, vomiting, a fall, or lifting.
Do not pour peroxide, alcohol, iodine, powders, ointments, or herbal products into the opening unless specifically directed. Do not remove visible sutures or staples. Avoid food and drink if the surgical team advises that an urgent procedure may be needed.
Call 911 or go to an emergency department for major separation or signs of severe illness.
Call 877-545-1300 or request a provider to begin care. Healix360 serves Southern California and Nevada and accepts Medicare Part B and most major insurance plans.