Sternotomy Scars

[lavlie]

I would like to know if there are others out there who have had a problem with scar tissue. After over a year postop this area remains very tender to touch, hypertropic[bulging] and itchy. Using 1% Hydrocort cream does help and Benedryl 25mg at night to sleep so the itching does not wake me up. Cardiologist says I`ll just have to learn to live with it. Not to complain, but I am curious.

 

[catwoman]

Since the cardiologist hasn't been helpful, have you consulted with a dermatologist? Perhaps that type of specialist might have some insight.

 

[Lynlw]

Since the cardiologist hasn't been helpful, have you consulted with a dermatologist? Perhaps that type of specialist might have some insight.

I was thinking either a dermatologist or Plastic Surgeon, might be a good place to try and get some help, since your scar is botherring you and itchy. I know Plastic surgeons treat scar issues, chances are if you got a steriod shot into the scar, it could help with the itching.

 

[Bill B]

The lower part of my scar is like this too. Funny, the top half is a perfectly thin line and does not swell or itch. I have a great dermatologist. He didn't get too excited when I showed him the ugly red and swollen part of the scar. Just said it's the way some people heal. He offered to inject it with steroids if I wanted but only after I asked about that specifically. I said I'd like to see if it gets better, although I'm 10 months post-op. He then recommended some stuff called Kelo Cote. Expensive at about $20 for 6gm, although I found 15gm for about that on eBay. I've been using it for only a week or so together with a prescription steroid cream (a lot stronger the HC 1%). Not much has happened yet, if anything. I'll report back after another month or so. I probably should take pictures because it's hard to notice change when it happens slowly. I wouldn't post them - it's too gross looking! Most people who post pics have beautiful little scars.

 

[JeffM]

When was your surgery? Some people just have more problems with dermatological scar tissue than others. I'm in that group. Sept 12th will be 2 years since my surgery and I still have some itching and sensitivity on the lower part of my scar. The bottom 1/2 inch is just a tiny white line but the next 2.5 inches is thick and pink. It has gone down ever so slightly and is less sensitive. I think the thickness will probably remain. I've already been through two sessions of cortisone injections and it didn't really have much impact. I hope you have better success with yours.

I would like to know if there are others out there who have had a problem with scar tissue. After over a year postop this area remains very tender to touch, hypertropic[bulging] and itchy. Using 1% Hydrocort cream does help and Benedryl 25mg at night to sleep so the itching does not wake me up. Cardiologist says I`ll just have to learn to live with it. Not to complain, but I am curious.

 

[ALCapshaw2]

It wouldn't hurt to make a call to your Surgeon's Office.
Perhaps his Nurse or Surgeon's Assistant could offer some advice, or relay your questions to the Surgeon for his input.

'AL Capshaw'