You should keep the area covered with a thin layer of ointment at all times until the site is completely healed (usually10 days) **If a shave biopsy was done,
It will take approximately one to two weeks to receive the pathology results We will notify you of the results as soon as possible There may be some post-
After a punch biopsy or excision biopsy, the wound will usually be closed with non-dissolving stitches These need to be removed at your GP surgery after one to
The procedure will depend on the type of biopsy you have: Follow up with your healthcare provider or dermatologist as directed: You may need to
The Dermatology service offers specialist care to patients with skin conditions such as acne, blistering skin, drug-related rash, eczema, hair
more redness, swelling, pain, pus, or drainage contact the Dermatology Department We will notify you as soon at we receive your biopsy results,
Remember to bring with you your completed Dermatology Patient Pre-surgery Questionnaire and Medication List Do not drive to the hospital but ask a friend or
33416_7Wound_Care_Instructions_tcm75_456609.pdf
WOUND CARE INSTRUCTIONS AND BIOPSY RESULTS
WOUND CARE
Step1: Cleanse
Take the bandage off after one day. Begin gently cleaning the area once a day with soap and water to remove the dried blood or crust. The shower is a good place to do the cleaning.
Step 2: Moisturize
Apply Vaseline ointment to keep the wound "greasy" as wounds heal faster if they do not dry out. Antibiotic ointments such as Neosporin and Bacitracin are universally not recommended because they may cause allergic reactions in some individuals
Step 3: Protect
Apply a bandage. If there are stitches, continue using the ointment until the stitches are removed. If there are no stitches, use the ointment until there is no more crust forming. Wounds on the back and leg take longer to heal. Exposing the wound to air to dry out and form a scab is not recommended. HELPING THE HEALING You can take Tylenol if you experience pain after the procedure. Avoid aspirin or Motrin as these medications can increase bleeding. A Ice packs may minimize swelling, especially for surgery done on the face. Without taking off the bandage, use an ice pack for 10-15 minutes per hour on the affected area until bedtime. Ice should be wrapped in a plastic and then a cloth to avoid burning your skin and wetting your bandage. Elevate the part of the body that has had surgery, to minimize bleeding and swelling. If the surgery is on your face or head, use several pillows to sleep on the first few nights, to keep blood draining out of the head instead of into it. Remember not to bend over as well.
IF YOU HAD STITCHES
If you had a surgery with the placement of stitches, you must be careful not to overstretch the area. As the wound heals, it will be weaker than the surrounding skin and can even "pop open" if stretched too much. This risk of opening up is greatest from the time of the surgery until about 7-10 days after the sutures are removed. Arrange your schedule so that the area of the body operated upon will be relatively inactive for that period of time. This usually applies to exercise routines or sports activity. Avoid heavy lifting.
IF YOU START BLEEDING
If bleeding starts put continuous pressure on the area for 20 minutes. If bleeding continues, hold pressure for an additional 20 minutes. If bleeding still continues, contact the Dermatology Department. If it is after hours contact Urgent Care or the Emergency
Department.
SIGNS OF INFECTION
A small area (1/4-inch) of redness is a normal part of the healing process. If you experience more redness, swelling, pain, pus, or drainage contact the Dermatology Department immediately.
BIOPSY RESULTS
We will notify you as soon at we receive your biopsy results, which can take about 2 weeks and sometimes longer. If you have not heard from us after 2-3 weeks please contact the
Dermatology Department.