What happens to fluid output after drain removal post surgery?

Question

It's been 2 weeks and finally both JP drains removed post TT. Average output for prior 3 days 25-40cc each. One of the tubes was "stuck" thus required intense tugging until it came out. I have felt intense internal burning to right side of body and around BB. I am also back to work and on my feet all day. How much is reasonable for body to "absorb" and how exactly does the body "absorb" and take care of the output in between the layers after drain removal? Dumb it down for me please. Thanks!

Stephanie Beidler Teotia, MD · Answer

Your body will naturally absorb the drainage as long as it is not excessive and decreasing in production. If the fluid continues to accumulate, then you can develop a seroma (fluid collection). A seroma is often uncomfortable and requires aspiration (drainage) of the fluid in the clinic setting. Increased activity and absence of compression can influence the development of a seroma. Hopefully you will do well and will not have this issue.

Richard J. Brown, MD · Answer

Once the drain output
has dropped enough to pull the drain then the body just absorbs the remaining
fluid over time. That is the simplest way to explain this.

Ron Hazani, MD, FACS · Answer

The fluid that accumulate after surgery is related to delayed lymphatics return. During a TT the channels are violated and it takes time for the body to regenerate these channels and return the fluid to the heart. The accumulated fluid essentially tapers down with time.

Hector Milla, MD · Answer

Hi and thanks for your question. I usually remove drains when there is 25cc or less clear fluid coming out. Drains are foreing bodies and tissues react to them producing some of this fluid, so when they are removed this ends progressively and little amount of fluid can be absorbed by the body.

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What happens to fluid output after drain removal post surgery?

Answers (4)

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