McKesson Clinical Reference Systems: Women's Health Advisor 2002.2

What are sutures?

Sutures are the stitches used to repair certain types of wounds, such as cuts, tears, and surgical incisions. If a cut or tear is deep, it may need sutures to close it up, stop the bleeding, and help it heal properly. Incisions made during surgery also need sutures. Some cuts are closed with metal staples instead of sutures. The care of stapled wounds is similar to the care of sutured wounds.

You may be given a tetanus booster and/or antibiotic prescription when your wound is treated.

How do I take care of my wound and sutures?

Immediately after you get a cut, put pressure on the wound to stop the bleeding. Then thoroughly wash it with soap and water. Try to remove all dirt and debris.

After the wound is sutured it must be kept clean. Keep it dry for the first 12 to 24 hours. Then you can clean it with soap and water twice a day, but make sure the wound and sutures are kept dry between washings. If you wish, you may place a small amount of antibiotic ointment on the wound. Your health care provider may recommend that you cover your wound with gauze or a bandage to keep it from getting dirty.

Any wound can become infected. Signs of infection include:

• redness
• red streaks
• swelling
• pus
• drainage
• warmth in the area of the wound
• fever
• increased pain.

Contact your health care provider if you notice any of these signs.

You may be prescribed an antibiotic to help prevent infection. You may be given a tetanus shot.

When are sutures removed?

For deep cuts the first stitches are placed under the skin. These stitches are made of materials that dissolve and do not need to be removed.

Sutures or staples on the surface of the skin need to be removed by your health care provider 3 to 14 days after they are put in. Sutures in wounds on the face usually can be removed after just 3 to 5 days. In areas of high stress, such as hands, knees, or elbows, the sutures must stay in 10 to 14 days. Your provider will tell you when you should come to the office for removal of your sutures or staples. Do NOT remove sutures or staples yourself.

This content is reviewed periodically and is subject to change as new health information becomes available. The information is intended to inform and educate and is not a replacement for medical evaluation, advice, diagnosis or treatment by a healthcare professional.