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Dr. Andrew Rynne
MD
Dr. Andrew Rynne

Family Physician

Exp 50 years

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What Causes Shingles Near Incision Site After A Lumbar Decompression?

I had a lumbar decompression and fusion about 9 days ago, I now have a case if shingles about an inch from the incision sight that have not ruptured. Is this something I should worry about? Should I go to the er and have them rupture them and clean them out so he infection from shingles doesn't get into the incision
Tue, 27 Jan 2015
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Internal Medicine Specialist,  's  Response
Are you sure it is shingles? There is no concern about shingles getting into the incision. Shingles is caused by a virus that has been in your body for many years. It can erupt in a rash following a stressful event, which would include the surgery.

I would be concerned about other types of infection, however, which might require antibiotics, and could potentially get into the wound. So yes, it would be a good idea to have these lesions looked at, diagnosed, and treated appropriately. You can go to urgent care, ER, or call your surgeon and let him or her know what is going on. Hope this helps.

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What Causes Shingles Near Incision Site After A Lumbar Decompression?

Are you sure it is shingles? There is no concern about shingles getting into the incision. Shingles is caused by a virus that has been in your body for many years. It can erupt in a rash following a stressful event, which would include the surgery. I would be concerned about other types of infection, however, which might require antibiotics, and could potentially get into the wound. So yes, it would be a good idea to have these lesions looked at, diagnosed, and treated appropriately. You can go to urgent care, ER, or call your surgeon and let him or her know what is going on. Hope this helps.