Getting ready to go home after a procedure or a long hospital stay can be stressful and we want all parents and carers to know that our team will continue to support them throughout this process.
The team have compiled lots of helpful guidance into an Advice After Heart Surgery leaflet, specifically written for parents and carers of children and young people.
Download our Advice After Heart Surgery – information for parents leafletHow long will the scar take to heal?
Many things affect the length of time it takes for a wound to heal. Our surgeons use dissolvable stitches, so it is quite normal to see small lengths of stitch come away from the wound. Usually there are only one or two stitches that need to be removed, several days after the operation.
Check the wound regularly; if your child experiences any pain, or you notice any swelling or redness, this may be a sign of infection. If you are worried or your child has any of these symptoms, please contact the Children’s Cardiac Specialist Nurse. They can discuss the wound with you and arrange for it to be assessed if necessary.
When will my child see the doctor again after discharge?
Following discharge your child will be invited to attend a follow-up in the Out-patient Department. The Cardiologist will see your child, either at Leeds Children’s Hospital or at your local hospital. If you do not receive an appointment within a week after discharge, please give the specialist nurses a ring to check your appointment is on the way.