Should the drain hole be covered?

Question

I went to.my first post op appointment today. He took all the bandages off and just put my wrap back on. My drain holes or where they are inserted is not covered anymore. Should i cover them up to prevent infection?

Nelson Castillo, MD · Answer

Thank you for your question. As far as the drain hole, these normally close fairy quickly after the drains are replaced, and I recommend patients keep a gauze over the holes to collect any fluid drainage that may occur until they have sealed over.  This is mainly to prevent soiling of your clothes and binder. Voice your concerns with your surgeon who should be able to provide reassurance or wound care instructions

Vincent N. Zubowicz, MD · Answer

There is no risk for infection without a dressing on the drain side. However since the sites can leak it is place to prevent swelling of the patient's clothes.

Naveen Setty, MD · Answer

I will typically have the patient place gauze over the drain sites after removal to help absorb any drainage.  The sites should heal within a couple of days.

Melinda Lirag Lacerna-Kimbrell, MD, FACS · Answer

It is not necessary to keep them covered. As long as there is little to no drainage and the area is kept clean, they can remain uncovered and heal appropriately. The healing of the incisions begins from the bottom and works its way up to the surface, forming a scab. This process only takes but a week or two.Thank you for your question.Melinda Lacerna, MD FACS

Pedro M. Soler, Jr., MD · Answer

Thank you for the question. The drain holes can be covered, but merely to absorb any drainage that may occur till they heal. The healing will occur over the next 2 to 3 days. I have my patients keep the area clean and apply bacitracin ointment over the drain holes until they have healed.Best wishes.

George Lefkovits, MD - Account Suspended · Answer

I recommend covering the drain sites with sterile gauze until they close which is usually in 5- 7 days. It prevents leakage of fluid and is, therefore, less messy.

Priti Shukla, Mch - Account Suspended · Answer

I usually place a absorbant cotton pad over the drain hole, held in place by wrap alone. Thats because some discharge from the drain site happens and that may stain the garments. after 24 hour of removal, drain hole closes and does not discharge liquid. I see no harm in you doing that. Infection going up the hole is not so much of a risk as such.

Should the drain hole be covered?

Answers (7)

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