10 - What Care is needed for the incision?

Clean incisions daily with soap (non-deodorant or non-perfume) and water.

Do not cover incisions with anything other than clothes, if there is drainage loose, gauze-type bandage can be paced over it.

Cream, ointment, or powders should not be applied for 6 - 8 weeks.

After 6 - 8 weeks when the scares are fully healed rub Vaseline, lanolin, and vitamin E on the scars to help soften and decrease the scarring.

Examine incisions twice a day.

Report any significant changes, such as: redness, swelling, or drainage.

Temperature should be taken twice a day, once on the morning and once in the evening.

Keep the graft leg elevated when sitting to prevent swelling in the foot and ankle.

Keep a daily diary of temperature, weight, appearance of incisions and distance walked each day.

What symptoms can be expected after discharge from the hospital?

Tingling, numbness, burning or itchiness around incisions will gradually lessen with time.

Tender spots on the chest may be noted along side the incision.

Some deep muscle aches and soreness are common IF

Chest discomfort is described as pulling, sharp, aching or soreness.

Incisional discomfort in the chest may persist for 2 - 3 months or longer until the breastbone heals completely.

Drainage, increased redness or swelling in incision.

The patient may feel a slight motion or clicking in the breastbone after 2 months with sneezing, coughing, deep breathing or changes of position.

IF this continues beyond 2 months, the parents should notify the surgeon.

11 - White Diet (42)