- Keep the incision clean and dry. Your doctor will give you specific instructions on how to clean and care for your incision. It is important to follow these instructions carefully to prevent infection.
- Apply a bandage to the incision. Your doctor may prescribe a bandage to help protect the incision and keep it clean. Change the bandage as directed by your doctor.
- Wearing loose-fitting clothing. Tight-fitting clothing can put pressure on the incision and make it more uncomfortable. Wear loose-fitting clothing to help the incision heal.
- Avoiding strenuous activity. Strenuous activity can increase your risk of bleeding and infection. Avoid strenuous activity for at least 2 weeks after surgery.
- Taking pain medication as needed. You may experience some pain after surgery. Your doctor will prescribe pain medication to help manage the pain. Take the medication as directed by your doctor.
- Eating a healthy diet. Eating a healthy diet can help your body heal. Make sure to eat plenty of fruits, vegetables, and whole grains.
- Drinking plenty of fluids. Drinking plenty of fluids helps to keep your body hydrated and can help to prevent constipation.
- Getting enough rest. Getting enough rest helps your body heal. Aim for 7-8 hours of sleep each night.
- Monitoring your incision for signs of infection. Call your doctor if you notice any of the following signs of infection:
- Redness, swelling, or warmth around the incision
- Pain that gets worse over time
- Drainage from the incision
- Fever
- Following up with your doctor as instructed. Your doctor will schedule follow-up appointments to monitor your recovery. Be sure to attend all of your follow-up appointments.
Here are some additional tips to help you recover from fistula surgery:
- Take sitz baths 2-3 times a day for 15-20 minutes each time. Sitz baths can help to clean the area and reduce inflammation.
- Use a mild soap and water to clean the area around the incision. Avoid using harsh soaps or wipes, as these can irritate the skin.
- Apply a thin layer of antibiotic ointment to the incision after cleaning it. This will help to keep the area moist and prevent infection.
- Change the bandage on the incision daily. Be sure to wash your hands before and after changing the bandage.
- Avoid sitting for long periods of time. If you must sit, use a donut pillow to help support the area around the incision.
- Get plenty of rest. Your body needs time to heal, so make sure to get plenty of rest.
- Eat a healthy diet and drink plenty of fluids. This will help your body to heal and recover.
- Monitor the incision for signs of infection. If you notice any redness, swelling, pain, or drainage, contact your doctor immediately.
- Avoid swimming or bathing in public pools or hot tubs for at least 2 weeks after surgery. This is to prevent the introduction of bacteria into the incision site.
- Be careful when wiping after bowel movements. Use soft, wet wipes or toilet paper to avoid irritating the incision site.
- Avoid wearing tight-fitting clothing around the incision site. This can put pressure on the incision and slow down healing.
Here are some additional information about fistula surgery:
- Fistula surgery is a common procedure used to treat a pilonidal sinus, which is a small, hair-filled pocket that forms in the skin near the anus. The surgery involves removing the sinus and any surrounding tissue.
- Fistula surgery is usually performed as an outpatient procedure, meaning that you will be able to go home the same day.
- The recovery time for fistula surgery is typically 2-4 weeks.
- Most people experience some pain after fistula surgery. Your doctor will prescribe pain medication to help manage the pain.
- There is a small risk of complications after fistula surgery, such as infection, bleeding, and recurrence of the fistula.
- If you have any questions or concerns about fistula surgery, be sure to talk to your doctor.