Gosh Kirsten - that lump certainly does look somewhat scary. What are the doctors doing/saying about it??? I had back surgery, and never had anything like that happen. I'd demand some answers - and now!!!

As far as cleaning - the heck with it. Just how "dirty" can it possibly be with just you and the 2 furkids??? It's not like you have kids running in and out all day. Just leave it until you feel better. You're not helping the healing process any if you exert yourself beyond what you feel that you are able to do. Try to relax and don't stress over a little dirt or messiness - it will still be there when you're feeling better.

And get some answers from those doctors............