I had a tummy tuck 7 weeks ago. I have an open sore that has a wound vac. Now running fever. Should I be on antibiotic? (Photo)

Question

My doctor says I do not need them. I had abdominal prolapse , hernia repair and a ton of scar tissue removed. I had entire large instine removed and have a J pouch. I had MRSA with vancomycin 15 years ago and have had shingles twice. This entire ordeal has not worked out like I was told. I’m in pain and not on any medication other than ibuprofen

Aldo Guerra, MD · Answer

Thank you for this question. I’m sorry about your fever and wound. Both are risks of this surgery, but rarely happen in my practice. Smoking, diabetes, and being overweight increases the risks. Your situation must be managed by your doctor and not online. I suggest you call your plastic surgeon and discuss your fever. Best of luck!

Mark Eberbach, MD · Answer

antibiotics are needed for infection not an open wound. There is a difference. The key change you mention is the fever. Fever may represent infection that has newly developed. There is some redness I notice under the vac seal. With this picture, you need to see your doctor asap. Or go to the emergency room if they can’t see you.

David Graham, MD · Answer

I would be sure to follow closely with your plastic surgeon and general surgeon. If you had mesh placed to repair your hernia then antibiotics may be a good idea.

James Shoukas, MD · Answer

Sorry to hear about your postoperative difficulty.  Based on your story you are a very complex case. Having a fever in the face of everything that you have been through is definitely concerning.  You should follow-up with your plastic surgeon immediately or seek medical attention in an emergency room.

Darryl J. Blinski, MD · Answer

Best to be seen in ER. Might be recurrent MRSA? Or other issues. Workup is in order in your serious situation. Please seek immediate medical care.

I had a tummy tuck 7 weeks ago. I have an open sore that has a wound vac. Now running fever. Should I be on antibiotic? (Photo)

Answers (5)

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