Hypergranulation Tissue: Definition, Treatment, Stoma, G-Tube, Toenail, Skin Cancer, and Feeding Tube Sites
- What is Hypergranulation Tissue?
- Hypergranulation Tissue Treatment
- Hypergranulation Tissue in Stoma
- Hypergranulation Tissue in G-Tube
- Hypergranulation Tissue in Toenail
- Hypergranulation Tissue in Skin Cancer
- Hypergranulation Tissue in Feeding Tube Sites
What is Hypergranulation Tissue?
Hypergranulation tissue, also known as overgranulation, occurs when an excess of granulation tissue forms during wound healing. Instead of remaining level with the surrounding skin, it protrudes, creating a raised, red, and sometimes moist appearance. This condition is common in wounds healing by secondary intention, such as surgical wounds, stomas, and feeding tube sites.

Hypergranulation tissue can delay proper wound closure and increase the risk of infection. It often results from excessive moisture, prolonged inflammation, or mechanical irritation. Proper wound care, moisture balance, and intervention by healthcare professionals can help manage and resolve this condition effectively.
Hypergranulation Tissue Treatment
Treatment for hypergranulation tissue varies depending on the cause and location. Common approaches include:
- Silver nitrate application: This chemical cautery method helps reduce excess tissue growth.
- Topical corticosteroids: These help decrease inflammation and promote balanced healing.
- Managing moisture: Keeping the wound site dry and avoiding excessive moisture can prevent further tissue overgrowth.
- Reducing friction: Minimizing mechanical irritation from dressings, tubes, or medical devices helps control hypergranulation.
- Surgical removal: In persistent cases, a healthcare professional may surgically remove the excess tissue.
Timely intervention can help restore normal wound healing and prevent complications.
Hypergranulation Tissue in Stoma
Stomas, such as colostomies and urostomies, are prone to hypergranulation tissue due to continuous exposure to moisture and irritation from ostomy appliances. This can cause discomfort, leakage issues, and difficulty with appliance adhesion.
Treatment strategies include applying silver nitrate, using ostomy powders or barrier rings, and ensuring a proper fit of the ostomy appliance to minimize friction. Regular monitoring and care by a wound care specialist can help manage this condition effectively.
Hypergranulation Tissue in G-Tube
Gastrostomy tubes (G-tubes) are often associated with hypergranulation tissue at the insertion site due to mechanical friction, leakage, and prolonged tube placement.
Effective management includes proper skin care, keeping the area dry, applying silver nitrate or steroid creams, and adjusting the tube to reduce movement. If the tissue becomes excessive, medical intervention may be required to prevent discomfort and infection.
Hypergranulation Tissue in Toenail
Hypergranulation tissue can develop around an ingrown toenail due to continuous irritation and inflammation. It appears as a red, swollen, and tender overgrowth of tissue along the nail border.
Treatment options include soaking the foot in warm saline, applying topical antibiotics, and in severe cases, minor surgical procedures to remove the overgrown tissue and correct the nail growth.
Hypergranulation Tissue in Skin Cancer
In cases of skin cancer, hypergranulation tissue may form around chronic non-healing wounds or post-surgical sites. It may be mistaken for tumor regrowth, requiring careful evaluation.
Treatment depends on the underlying cause, with options including wound care management, biopsy if malignancy is suspected, and targeted treatment based on the cancer type.
Hypergranulation Tissue in Feeding Tube Sites
Feeding tube sites, such as PEG tubes, frequently develop hypergranulation tissue due to leakage, irritation, and prolonged tube placement.
Management involves maintaining skin integrity, reducing friction, keeping the area clean and dry, and using silver nitrate or corticosteroids to minimize excess tissue growth.
Proper care and routine monitoring can prevent complications and ensure optimal healing at the feeding tube site.
