What are the 4 Types of Wound Drainage?

  • June 15, 2023
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Are you wondering if your wound drainage indicated infection? From injuries to surgeries, there are several ways you can get a wound. When you visit the doctor for wound care, they will give you specific instructions for taking care as well as monitoring your wound. While other factors affect how long it takes to heal, knowing different types of drainage from wounds can help you stay alert. Carry on reading this blog to learn all about wound drainage!

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    Types of Drainage from Wounds

    Wound drainage is essential to recovery since your body needs to exude additional cells and other bodily fluids from the surgical site. However, while wound drainage is necessary for healing, it could also be a primary indicator that something is wrong. So, how to distinguish between infection and normal wound healing? You can learn the types of drainage from wounds to know when you need urgent attention.

    Below, we have mentioned the four common types of wound drainage and what they mean:

    Serous Wound Drainage

    When clear and watery fluid seeps from the wound, it is known as serous wound drainage. This type of drainage from wounds is healthy and normal, especially when the damage is fresh. Moreover, when the wound reaches the inflammatory stage of healing, clear fluid in and surrounding a wound is a green flag as well. This is because clear drainage means your body is flushing germs, preventing infection and other complications. In short, clear drainage is a sign of healthy recovery!

    Sanguineous Wound Drainage

    Usually, when the wound is at the beginning of the inflammatory stages of healing, it may start to bleed. Hence, it is completely normal to notice blood in the drainage unless it occurs in the later stages of wound healing. If your wound starts bleeding during the final stages of recovery, it may be a sign that the incision has broken open once again.

    Other than this, bandages sometimes pull off scabs, resulting in mild bleeding. Nonetheless, you need to consult your healthcare provider if the stitches tear apart or the wound breaks back open. Be gentle with the wound in case of bleeding, and do not wait to visit a doctor.

    Serosanguineous Wound Drainage

    This is among the common types of drainage from a wound, characterized by the watery and thin consistency that is pink in color; sometimes, the shade is a darker red. Despite the pink color, this type of drainage from wounds is not necessarily a cause for concern, particularly in the initial stages of healing. The color only indicates that the wound led to capillary damage.

    Purulent Wound Drainage

    When your wound has milky-colored or grey-colored pus discharge, it may mean that your wound is infected. Known as purulent wound drainage, this type of discharge turns yellow or green along with an unpleasant odor when the infection is worse. Seek infection control services right away if you think the wound is infected!

    Questions About What are the 4 Types of Wound Drainage? ?

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    See What Our Patients Are Saying About Us

    I recently sustained a burn to my ankle in March which necessitated an Emergency Room visit. When the severity of the wound and the lengthy treatment needed was discussed, I was told of the new wound Center and soon met Dr. Gordon and Irina who immediately became my new best friends.

    Dr. Carl Mani

    First and foremost, Dr. Anthony Gordon and Irena Shteyn, RN, CWOCN saved my life.
    I had severe wounds in both lower legs due to a severe case of cellulitis. I was in acute pain and worried about my prognosis.

    Barbara Scrooc

    I had an accident that injured my leg and I didn’t see a doctor for over a week. I noticed that the wound was not healing so I went to the Emergency at Novato Community Hospital. They told me to see a wound specialist ASAP and they recommended Dr. Anthony Gordon at the Marin Advanced Wound Center.

    Myra Perea

    My father got treatment from Dr. Gordon for his burn wound. Dr. Gordon was very caring, attentive and spent generous amounts of time to give him very effective treatment.

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    How Long Does Wound Drainage Last?

    Wound healing time depends on your medical history, age, health condition, and other factors. So, while wound healing is unique for everyone, most surgical tubes are left for around two weeks only. If you suspect fluids are still exuding from the wound, it is best to seek medical attention. Generally, wound healing takes somewhere between four to six weeks. However, if your wound healing takes longer, you may be suffering from a chronic wound.

    Talk to Wound Care Experts

    So, do you have queries regarding your wound healing? Now that you know the types of drainage from wounds, our specialists are here to help you. Talk to the Advanced Wound Center team now at (415) 429 4225. You can also pay us a visit at 165 Rowland Way # 301-A, Novato, CA.

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