What should I do if granulation tissue forms in an episiotomy wound?

There are several reasons for granulation tissue formation at episiotomy wound sites, mainly including special constitution, poor healing, inflammatory infection, scar hyperplasia, and foreign body irritation. Treatments may include re-suturing, local disinfection, laser therapy, surgical excision, and topical anti-inflammatory medications. The analysis is as follows:

1. Special constitution: Some women may have a special constitution that causes rejection of sutures, leading to granulation tissue formation due to suture irritation. In such cases, it may be necessary to visit a hospital to remove unsuitable sutures and re-suture with appropriate materials.

2. Poor healing: If the episiotomy wound is large or improperly aligned during suturing, poor healing may occur, resulting in granulation tissue. Patients can gently clean the affected area with povidone-iodine solution as directed by a physician, once daily. Local disinfection helps reduce bacterial infection, promotes wound healing, and prevents further inflammation.

3. Scar hyperplasia: Some women may have a predisposition to scarring (scar-prone constitution). During the repair process after episiotomy, excessive fibrous tissue regeneration may lead to hypertrophic scarring, resembling granulation tissue. When necessary, laser treatment at a hospital can be performed, using specific wavelengths of laser to precisely target damaged areas. Multiple sessions can effectively improve skin condition.

4. Foreign body irritation: Foreign bodies within the wound—such as non-absorbable sutures—may trigger local inflammatory reactions, promoting granulation tissue formation. Under professional medical supervision, thickened granulation tissue can be completely curetted under local anesthesia. This procedure directly removes abnormally proliferated tissue and relieves discomfort.

5. Inflammatory infection: Inadequate cleanliness and hygiene at the wound site may lead to inflammatory infection and subsequent granuloma formation. Topical anti-inflammatory medications such as erythromycin ointment, fusidic acid cream, or mupirocin ointment may be used as prescribed by a doctor.

Maintain healthy lifestyle habits during recovery, and avoid spicy and irritating foods such as pepper, chili, and garlic, which may impair healing.