Hematoma is defined as a localized mass
of accumulated blood under the dressings that may lead
to non-take and/or infection. The formation of small hematomas
is one of the more common complications encountered.
Hematomas usually develop in the first
48 hours. Hematomas need to be removed and any bleeding/drainage
must be stopped to allow cellular ingrowth into the matrix.
Intervention:
- If hematoma is still in fluid state:
evacuate hematoma by inserting an 18-20 gauge hollow
point needle with syringe under surface of INTEGRA™
Matrix Wound Dressing and aspirate fluid
- If hematoma is no longer in fluid
state: incise INTEGRA™ Matrix
Wound Dressing with a #15 blade, then evacuate
clot using a gentle rolling motion with a sponge or
tongue blade
- Control drainage/bleeding by irrigating
with diluted epinepherine and reapplying INTEGRA™
Matrix Wound Dressing
- For a large, persistent hematoma:
control drainage/bleeding and achieve hemostasis by
irrigating with epinepherine, electrocautery or suturing
and reattaching INTEGRA™
Matrix Wound Dressing and/or INTEGRA™ Bilayer Matrix
Wound Dressing
