WOUND STAPLES These are probably the most commonly used alternative to suturing. Wound staples are made of steel and are rectangular, with an opening in the bottom. A variety of products are available.
Cover the area with an adhesive bandage or gauze pad if the area is on the hands or feet, or if it's likely to drain onto clothing. Change the dressing and reapply the antiseptic ointment at least every day and whenever it gets wet or dirty. Check the area each day and keep it clean and dry.
Even a large laceration should eventually heal on its own without stitches, but stitching it up helps it heal faster. It also keeps bacteria out and lowers the risk of infection. Getting stitches can also prevent scarring.
A cut may be left open instead of being closed with stitches, staples, or adhesive. A cut may be left open when it is likely to become infected, because closing it can make infection even more likely. You will probably have a bandage. The doctor may want the cut to stay open the whole time it heals.
If the wound is spread open, it will heal by filling in from the bottom and sides. A wound that is not stitched may take 1 to 4 weeks to heal, depending on the size of the opening. You will probably have a visible scar. You can discuss revision of the scar with your healthcare provider at a later time.
In some cases, you may be able to wait up to 12 to 24 hours. If you are unable to get stitches in this time frame, consult a medical professional on the best course of action for your wound.
Your risk of infection increases the longer the wound remains open. Most wounds that require closure should be stitched, stapled, or closed with skin adhesives (also called liquid stitches) within 6 to 8 hours after the injury.
Here are a few indications that you may need stitches: Depth: The wound goes deeper than 1/4 inch. Length: The wound is more than 1/2 inch long. Visible Layers: If the wound is deep enough to show bone, muscle, or fat, then stitches might be required to heal the skin over the underlying layers.
You'll likely need stitches if the wound: Bleeds enough to soak through a bandage. Keeps bleeding even after you apply direct pressure for 5 to 10 minutes. Spurts blood.
Wounds need to be covered so that they can heal properly. When a wound is left uncovered, the new surface cells that are being created can easily dry out. When these important cells dry out, it tends to slow down the healing process. A wound should be covered using a clean bandage.
Most small wounds heal naturally with time, but home remedies — such as aloe vera, antibacterial ointment, or honey — may speed up the healing process. A wound leaves the body's internal tissues exposed to the external environment. Cuts, blows, or other impacts are common causes.
Your risk of infection increases the longer the wound remains open. Most wounds that require closure should be stitched, stapled, or closed with skin adhesives (also called liquid stitches) within 6 to 8 hours after the injury. Some wounds that require treatment can be closed as long as 24 hours after the injury.
Your body has an amazing ability to repair all your cuts and scrapes. For most people, it's just a matter of time before things heal. But if you think your wound is taking too long to heal or may be infected, it's time to talk to a doctor.
Wounds heal faster if they are kept warm. Try to be quick when changing dressings. Exposing a wound to the open air can drop its temperature and may slow healing for a few hours. Don't use antiseptic creams, washes or sprays on a chronic wound.
Deeper lacerations may take several weeks and even months to completely heal, and they may require stitches and other treatment from medical professionals to prevent complications and scarring.
If the wound is spread open, it will heal by filling in from the bottom and sides. A wound that is not stitched may take 1 to 4 weeks to heal, depending on the size of the opening. You will probably have a visible scar. You can discuss revision of the scar with your healthcare provider at a later time.
In some cases, you may be able to wait up to 12 to 24 hours. If you are unable to get stitches in this time frame, consult a medical professional on the best course of action for your wound.
Lacerations less than a quarter inch deep typically can heal without stitches. Those deeper than that typically require stitches to keep them closed during the healing process. The cut is near the eyes, mouth, or genitals. You should seek medical attention for any wound in these areas.
Benefits of Betadine Antiseptic Solution:
The Betadine brand trusted by doctors and hospitals. Promptly kills germs that can cause infection in minor cuts, scrapes, or burns. Gentle on minor wounds and surrounding skin.
Remove any dirt or debris with a tweezers cleaned with alcohol. See a doctor if you can't remove all debris. Apply an antibiotic or petroleum jelly. Apply a thin layer of an antibiotic ointment or petroleum jelly to keep the surface moist and help prevent scarring.
What to expect during wound stitching in a GP clinic? In a GP clinic, if the wound is deep enough, or wide enough to require stitches, this is what I would usually do to surgically repair and close the wound: Clean the wound with sterilizing solutions like chlorhexidine and or alcohol.