General, Minimally Invasive & Thoracic Surgery

Instructions For Your Child After Reduction Of An Intussusception

DRESSING:

Your child will have:

• A white gauze dressing covered by a clear plastic (Tegaderm®) – Remove this dressing 3 days after surgery. Beneath the gauze dressing(s) are small white bandages (Steri-strips®) - These will usually fall off in 1-3 weeks.

STITCHES:

 Stitches hold the incision together.

• They are under the skin; they do not need to be removed, the body will absorb them.

BATHING:

• Remove the dressing 3 days after surgery.  Sponge bathing is okay while the dressing is in place.  After the dressing is removed, the child should have tub baths in warm water.

ACTIVITY:

• The child may resume normal activities without restriction as tolerated. 

DIET:

• Your child may drink breastmilk ad lib. 
• If your child drinks formula please continue at the same volume the child had consumed on the day of discharge.  No more than 3-4 ounces every 3 hours.

PAIN:

Please call the office if you child develops any of the following

• Fever > 100.4
• Redness, swelling, or drainage from the incision site
• Pain despite the prescription medication