Advice after your nerve block for surgery
On this page…
What is an intentionally retained product?
An intentionally retained product is something that has been purposefully left in situ after a procedure.
Why would it have been left behind?
The product will have been left in situ to provide further treatment or support to the area that it is contained within. For example:
- Swab packs providing additional pressure to assist with the prevention of bleeding
- As an interim measure before the completion of surgery at a later date.
What do I need to do?
Your surgical team and nursing staff will inform you of the care, if any that you need to take whilst the product is in situ.
In patient stay – you will have an intentionally retained product care pathway which will be reviewed daily by the team looking after you.
The site and integrity of the product will be checked regularly and you will be kept informed of your treatment plan and proposed date of removal for the product.
Discharged home with product in situ - in some circumstances you may be discharged home with the product still in situ. In these situations you will be given a clear plan of what to expect regarding:
- How long will the product be left in situ?
- Does it have to be removed or will it come away/out on its own
- What to do if anything appears untoward or uncomfortable
- Who to contact if there are any issue
What if it comes out and its not supposed to?
If you are an inpatient and the product become dislodged, use your call bell to inform the nursing staff.
If you are at home, use the contact details provided to speak to the nursing staff/surgical team if appropriate.
If the removal is accompanied by excess pain/bleeding or discharge please go to your nearest accident and emergency.
What if it hasn’t come out and it was meant to?
Please contact your surgical team or GP to arrange a review appointment.
Who to call
If you have any concerns or worries concerning your health or the care of the internationally retained product please call 111
If you experience excessive pain/bleeding/discharge please report to your local accident and emergency
Contact us
If you have any queries relating to this information, please contact the General surgery or Surgery service.
About this information
Service:
General surgery, Surgery
Reference:
Y/045
Approval date:
1 March 2026
Review date:
1 March 2029
Click ‘show accessibility tools’ at the bottom of the page
Then click ‘select language’
Alternative formats
You can use the accessibility toolbar at the bottom of your screen to:
-
Change the text size
-
Adjust the font
-
Modify the colour contrast
-
Use the translate function
If you would like this information in another format, such as Braille, audio, or easy read, please speak to a member of staff.
You can also print as well as download as PDF using the “Print this page” button at the end of the page.
Staff will print a copy for you on request
Important note
This page provides general information only. It is developed by clinical staff and is reviewed regularly every 3 years for accuracy. For personal advice about your health, or if you have any concerns, please speak to your doctor.