Granulation tissue is basically new connective tissue that forms on the surface of a wound or stoma as the stoma tries to heal. It contains blood vessels so it is technically “live tissue” which can be quite painful and worrisome.

It can also grow fairly quickly, meaning it is important to get it under control sooner rather than later.

It’s important to note that granulation is not dangerous at all but it can be painful and unpleasant.

So what does it look like?  It is generally red or pink soft tissue that has a bubbly appearance.

How can you prevent granulation? Keeping the site as dry as possible will help prevent granulation. Another possible prevention is by ensuring your child has the correct size feeding tube. Lastly, stabilizing the tube can also help to prevent granulation by reducing friction at the site, so taping the tube to your little one to prevent it hanging or moving around too much could help.

How do you treat granulation? Your stoma sister will be able to best advise you on how to treat granulation, she might recommend burning the tissue off with silver nitrate sticks, wiping it down with a very strong saline solution multiple times a day, applying specific creams or lotions which can remove the additional tissue growth.