Stoma Care - Following removal of stomal/peristomal granulomas with curettage and cautery

Curettage (scraping of skin) procedures normally leave an open wound which will usually heal over 2-4 weeks.

How do I look after the treated area/wound?

The site of the wound or treated area will form a dark protective layer of skin. It may feel tender to touch when you change your appliance, and care should be taken to not disturb the natural healing process of the wound.

We will supply a medical adhesive remover to help remove your pouch more easily.

Cleanse the skin as you would normally do and apply your stoma pouch.

You may have a bath or shower but avoid soaking the area for long periods.

Pain relief

The local anaesthetic and numbness will subside 1-2 hours after the procedure has finished, and the pain may gradually increase (particularly in the first 24 hours).

You may want to take simple pain relief e.g. Paracetamol (as long as you do not take any other medicines containing Paracetamol), to a maximum of eight 500mg tablets in 24 hours.

Alternatively continue any other pain control you receive from your G.P. on prescription.

Complications

The area that has been treated may bleed during or after the procedure (particularly if you are taking anti-coagulant therapy).

Redness and some discomfort with slight weeping or discharge is a normal part of the healing process. However, if it continues 1 or 2 weeks after the procedure, you need to seek advice from your GP surgery/stoma nurse.

The signs of infection can be any of the following:

• Increased pain at the site
• Abnormal swelling or redness at the site
• A pus like discharge

If bleeding occurs, hold a piece of gauze or tissue against the wound for 20 minutes, without removing it constantly, this will help the blood to coagulate.

If it is still bleeding after this time you should contact the stoma care department or seek medical attention from your local Emergency Department or Walk in Centre.

Questions or further information

If you have any questions or concerns, please do not hesitate to contact the Stoma Care Department on 0161 206 4204 (Monday to Saturday between 7am and 5.30pm).

What do I do if I need help out of hours?

Should you experience problems when the Stoma department is closed you should seek help from your local Emergency Department or Walk in Centre.

Salford Royal Hospital Stoma Care Department - 0161 206 4204