Minor surgeries typically have short recovery times and are performed on an outpatient basis. Minor surgeries do not have major body cavities opened. The anesthesia for minor surgery can be general, local or regional. Examples of minor surgery include repairs of hernias and the removal of skin lesions. Some oral surgeries are also considered minor. Infections are possible complications of minor surgeries, and patients should be aware of the signs of infection.
Pain and Fever
An infection at the site of the surgery will result in an increase in pain a day or more after the time of the operation. An infection can also cause a fever to develop.
Wound Signs
The site of the surgery can become red and can swell when it becomes infected. The swelling may cause wounds to open. Pus can develop due to infection and can appear yellowish white in color. The pus can have a foul odor and can drain from the wound. An infection can cause the site of the surgery to feel warm and tender to the touch.
Risk Factors
Diabetes and smoking can increase the infection risk after minor surgery. Other risk factors include an altered immune system, obesity, low body temperature and malnutrition.
