Expert: Dr Ian Jackson - please note UK based - 8/13/2007

Question
I open gallbladder surgery on July 5th. After two days with an IV in my left hand, I had some swelling and itchy bumps that were around my wrist. They removed it and put another in my right hand. After, 5 weeks my left wrist, top side has a knot, and on the outside of my wrist has a couple of little knots that are very painful. Also, on my right inside wrist in between my hand and elbow is a knot, not as painful as my left wrist, but I am concerned that these knots are there, and very painful on my left wrist. I am just concerned about blood clots. Do you have any suggestions? I don't want to be a baby and run to my doctor, I was just looking for advice first. Thank you, April

Answer
Hi April
I assume these knots are hard areas under the skin. These are most likely areas of vein that have become thrombosed which can happen after having an IV. There is not a lot your doctor can do for these apart from let nature take it's course. You could rub in some ibuprofen gel into the affected areas each day as this can help the discomfort. It should settle in time but you may always have some hard areas there.
Kind regards
Dr Ian Jackson