Knowing when stitches are needed for cuts and wounds can help with healing and reduce scarring. Cuts can vary a lot in size and depth. Some are minor scratches that only need a bandage. Others are deeper lacerations that may need stitches for better healing.
Doctors use stitches, also called sutures, to close deeper wounds. This is especially true for wounds longer than a quarter of an inch.
People also use them for wounds that are gaping open or in areas that move a lot. They keep the skin edges together. This allows the body to heal better and lowers the risk of infection.
Does Your Wound Need Stitches?
Certain types of wounds are more likely to require stitches to ensure proper healing. Here’s a friendly rundown of the main types that typically need stitching:
Deep Cuts: A deep cut goes deeper than the top layer of skin. These cuts often show fat or muscle underneath. They usually need stitches to heal properly.
Wounds Longer than 1/4 Inch: If a cut is longer than a quarter inch, it usually needs stitches. Stitches help keep the edges together for better healing.
Gaping Wounds: If the edges of the cut do not touch or if they pull apart when you move, you may need stitches. Stitches help bring the edges together and promote healing.
Wounds on Sensitive Areas: Cuts on places that move a lot, like joints, face, or scalp, often need stitches. This helps keep them from opening again when you move.
Bite Wounds: Animal or human bites can cause deep puncture wounds. These wounds may need stitches, especially if there is a risk of infection.
Wounds that Won’t Stop Bleeding: If a cut bleeds a lot and doesn’t stop with pressure, stitches can help. They control the bleeding and help the wound heal.
Jagged or Irregular Cuts: Cuts that are rough or have uneven edges may need stitches. Stitches can help close the cut neatly and reduce scarring.
What Are Pucture Wounds?
Puncture wounds are a type of injury caused by sharp, pointed objects penetrating the skin. Common examples include injuries from nails, needles, or animal bites.
Puncture wounds can be worrying. They have a higher risk of infection because they go deep into the tissue. This deep tissue can trap bacteria. Symptoms may include redness, swelling, pain, and, in some cases, bleeding.
Some puncture wounds may require stitches and a tetanus shot.
When Should You Visit Urgent Care For Stitches?
You should think about going to urgent care for stitches if you have a deep cut. You should also go if the cut won’t stop bleeding or is in a place that might get infected. Other signs that you need stitches include:
- Cut Length: If the wound is longer than half an inch or gapes open when you try to touch it.
- Depth of the Wound: If the cut is deep – up to 1/4 of an inch.
- Bleeding: If bleeding persists after applying pressure for 10 minutes.
- Location: Cuts on the hands, feet, or over a joint may require stitches.
- Small Foreign Objects: If there are small foreign objects embedded in the wound such as dirt.
- Signs of Infection: If you notice increased redness, swelling, or discharge around the cut.
Cuts and Wounds That Require the Emergency Room?
Cuts and wounds that need a trip to the emergency room usually show signs that need quick medical help. Here are some examples:
- Deep, gaping wounds or cuts
- Heavy bleeding
- High pressure or impact wounds
- Lacerations on the face
- Animal or human bites
- Deep puncture wounds, more than 1/4 inch deep
- Severe pain or loss of function
- Embedded objects
- Severe infection symptoms such as fever, chills, systematic symptoms.
- Wounds in individuals with certain conditions such as those on blood thinners.
- Severe symptomatic issues such as trouble breathing, dizziness, loss of consciousness.
- Injuries sustained from accidents such as vehicle.
Remember to always dial 911 or visit your local emergency room right away. Don’t wait to decide if you are unsure of the severity of any injury.
Urgent Care Can Remove Most Stitches
When it comes to managing post-injury care, one important aspect is the removal of stitches. Many people believe that only a primary care doctor or a specialist can do this. However, many urgent care centers can safely and efficiently remove stitches.
