One of my TT drains is red/yellow, the other is dark red. Is this normal? (photo)

Question

One of my drains is red/yellow the other is dark red. Is this normal? If the dark red stays dark, does that mean I have to keep the drains in?

Erik Miles, MD, FACS · Answer

It is not unusual to have different colored drainage into each drain after surgery,  especially in the beginning.  The darker drain is draining an area where you probably bled a little bit more. It is generally nothing to worry about.  It is not necessarily a predictor on how long the drain will have to be in place. Your surgeon will follow you and make those decisions. Sometimes one drain is pulled out before the other one. Best wishes to you!

Camille Cash, MD · Answer

It's not unusual for there to be different colors of drainage in the drains as they are collecting fluid from different areas.  Over time the fluid should become lighter in color.  It is always best to discuss your concerns with your surgeon so that you are comfortable and confident in your recovery.

Malcolm A. Lesavoy, MD, FACS · Answer

The yellow drainage fluid is serum and has just a little blood, while the other dark fluid is mostly onld blood and a little serum.,

Keith Denkler, MD · Answer

The darker drain fluid is from more blood and less serum or fluid.  Over time the color changes to a clearer color.

Thangavel Ayyappan, MBBS, MS, MCh, DNB · Answer

most important point is that your drain color must progress towards straw colour is 3-5 days and also the quantity of drain must reduce,if it persists for more than 7 days and remains red then you must contact your doctor.normally the drains stop in 3-5 days

One of my TT drains is red/yellow, the other is dark red. Is this normal? (photo)

Answers (5)

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