Stripping JP drain tube prompts severe pain in back. Doc said bite down on something & deal with it. Is that my only option?

Question

Discomfort is one thing. Outright pain is another. This began with pulling and burning sensation at the opening where tube is inserted. Now, bc small clot in tube, I've been told to milk/strip the tube to keep it from clogging. Now, when I strip it, I have severe pain in my back, near where the end of the tube is situated. I refuse to strip it again. Should I Just deal w/ it for 1 wk (return appt)? Drainage was around 30 CC's daily until this started (last 24 hrs). Now it's < 10CCs.

Karthik Ram, MRCS, DNB · Answer

Kindly  consult your certified surgeon immediately   for an thorough evaluation . Pain at the site of insertion maybe the cause of either you stripping too harsh or the development of an infection in the area of your tube exertion .If you notice any sign of infection redness/swelling / pus   at the site of insertion it is important to deal with that as soon as possible.To increase the suction along the tubes to ease the release of clots hold the tube tightly at point of insertion of the drain and using a wet gauze to strip along  the length of the tube and release the end only after the stripping is finally complete . Hope this helps

Nelson Castillo, MD · Answer

Thank you for your question and I am sorry to hear of your JP issues after surgery.  Though stripping of the drain can cause a temporary increase in its suction pressure, creating some tension and pain to the area of the drain it usually resolves once the stripping is finished.  There should not be any reason that this causes outright pain and I would recommend seeing your surgeon for an in-person evaluation to determine the cause.  It may be the result of an infection at the site of the drain insertion or in the skin overlying the drain.  Ultimately you should not be forced to "deal with it" and should have a determination of the cause. Best wishes.

Stripping JP drain tube prompts severe pain in back. Doc said bite down on something & deal with it. Is that my only option?

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Stripping JP drain tube prompts severe pain in back. Doc said bite down on something & deal with it. Is that my only option?

Answers (2)

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Everything you need to know about Lipoma Removal

Our mission is to create a world where every investment in modern beauty is Worth It.