Prolonged bleeding after surgery

Prolonged bleeding after surgery refers to excessive or continuous bleeding that persists beyond the expected recovery period following a surgical procedure. This symptom can be caused by factors such as:

• Blood clotting disorders: Conditions like hemophilia or thrombocytopenia.
• Inadequate hemostasis: Improper sealing of blood vessels during surgery.
• Medications: Use of anticoagulants or antiplatelet drugs.
• Infections: Post-surgical infections that affect healing.
• Surgical complications: Accidental damage to blood vessels or tissues.

Symptoms to monitor include:

• Visible bleeding at the surgical site.
• Increased drainage from surgical drains or dressings soaked with blood.
• Bruising and swelling around the surgical area.
• Dizziness, weakness, or fainting due to blood loss.
• Drop in blood pressure and rapid heartbeat, indicating potential hypovolemic shock.

Prompt medical evaluation is necessary to determine the cause of prolonged bleeding, manage the condition effectively, and prevent complications. Treatment may include interventions to control bleeding, such as applying pressure, using hemostatic agents, revising the surgical area, or administering blood transfusions and clotting factors.

Source | Author Doctor Nikas Samuolis, reviewed by Prof. Virginijus Šapoka | Vilnius University | Faculty of Medicine | Head of the Department of Internal Medicine, Family Medicine, and Oncology