Strong odor 8 weeks after DIEP flap reconstruction. With open wound separation.

Question

I had diep flap reconstruction about 8 weeks ago. I had an infection when leaving the hospital that caused an open wound. I fought the infection for about 6 weeks. Now that the infection is gone I have a strong odor and yellow, oily, discharge. I'm going to my plastic surgeon in about 4 weeks. Should I be worried or call him? What is this? Also there seems to be a pocket or hole up under the top of the open wound. Seems there is an absence of tissue.

Ritu Chopra, MD · Answer

Yes you should indeed contact your surgeon that performed the surgery. It is difficult to know what is going on without examining you. However , from what you are describing it sounds as if you could have some fat necrosis. The best thing is to contact your surgeon ASAP and go from there.I hope this helps!Ritu Chopra MD

Hisham Seify, MD, PhD, FACS · Answer

Your particular, situation
sounds as though it may be fat necrosis and possibly the return of an
infection.You may need to start
debridement, but these concerns should be discussed with your Plastic Surgeon.

Mark A. Schusterman, MD, FACS · Answer

It is difficult to answer your question without photos and/or and exam but it appears you may have fat necrosis of part of the flap that may need at a minimum dressing changes.  Check with your plastic surgeon, and I would go sooner rather than later.

Strong odor 8 weeks after DIEP flap reconstruction. With open wound separation.

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