Is it normal to have fluid leaking near my belly button after having some surgical staples removed following major bowel surgery, and what should I do if the discharge continues despite cleaning it regularly with Betadine?
Some mild, clear, or pinkish discharge can be a normal part of the healing process after staples are removed. However, routinely cleaning the area with povidone-iodine (Betadine) can sometimes irritate the delicate new tissue and delay healing. It is usually best to gently wash the area with mild soap and water and keep it dry. Please contact your surgical team to have the wound evaluated, especially if you notice increased redness, warmth, swelling, a foul odor, thick yellow/green pus, or if you develop a fever.
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Is it normal to have fluid leaking near my belly button after having some surgical staples removed following major bowel surgery, and what should I do if the discharge continues despite cleaning it regularly with Betadine?