I have a string of blood in drainage pumps. Is that normal?

Question

Hi, I had a complete mommy makeover on 12/8/14. And today as I was draining my pumps one was clogged with like a red long mucous string. I had to pull it out, because it was blocking the drain. Looked like little ski ny worm or snake. Should I be concerned?

Ritu Chopra, MD · Answer

Some topics belong in these forums, this one really does not.  Fresh post-ops should direct any and all questions to the operating surgeon.  I know my patients know they can call me any time, day or night.  I even give them my cell number!  Information here could satisfy you and you might not call the MD.  When that happens, you deny him/her the opportunity to deal with what might be a problem.  Little problems can become big problems is not addressed in a timely manner.I know the answer to your query but I am not going to share it for the very reason stated above.  With your best interest in mind, I urge you to pick up the phone.  Now would be fine.

Vincent N. Zubowicz, MD · Answer

Surgical drains don't evacuate blood.  A clot indicates there may be significant blood above the drain that may need to be addressed.  Call your surgeon.

Luis Macias, MD, FACS · Answer

Sounds like it was a blood clot, which is common to have in drains. This will happen less as the fluid becomes more clear with time.   Contact your plastic surgeons with any post operative concerns as they are the best ones to guide you. Best wishes.

Gary Lawton, MD, FACS · Answer

It is very common to have this in the drains.  This is normal as long as the drains are functioning and there have been no other changes in the appearance of the abdomen.

Matthew H. Steele, MD · Answer

Thanks for your question.  This can certainly be disconcerting, but from what you are describing, it sounds like a blood clot in the drain.  This is not uncommon.  Occasionally patients will also notice small pieces of fat or white/yellow blood clots.  Best to discuss with your surgeon, specifically, but I don't think this is something to worry about.

Bao L. Phan, MD · Answer

The formation of blood clots in the drains we place following surgery can sometimes occur.  It often looks like a "red long mucous string."  The clots can clog the drains and prevents them from working properly- to drain fluid/ blood that can accumulate in the space underneath the skin flaps or pockets/ cavities we create during surgery.  When fluid accumulates in significant amounts, this can cause persisting swelling, pain, inhibit healing and can sometimes lead to an infection.  If it's a small amount that accumulates, your body can usually absorb it on it's own and no intervention is required.  If we are worried about large amounts of fluid left behind we can sometimes manipulate or "milk" the drains to dislodge the clots.  I would recommend you notify your surgeon you can properly be evaluated to see if any intervention is required.  Best wishes.

Francisco Canales, MD · Answer

YoOu did not mention whether these drains are in your tummy or your breasts.  It is not uncommon to see some clotted blood within the drains. In our practice we have transitioned to tummy tucks without drains to avoid many of the concerns drains generate. It is best you run this by your surgeon first  although it sounds like you may have dealt with it. You want to make sure your drain is still working and your surgeon may want to see you for a quick check.  Best wishes.Below is a fully healed tummy tuck.

Robert E. Zaworski, MD (retired) · Answer

This question needs to be directed to your operating surgeon.  I agree with Dr.Chopra below.  Best wishes!

I have a string of blood in drainage pumps. Is that normal?

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