What should you know about stitches and sutures?

Sutures may be placed through the skin or below it. Absorbable material is designed to break down inside the body, while non-absorbable material is removed after the wound has had time to strengthen. The choice depends on the wound's depth, site, tension, contamination, and the tissue involved. Numbing medicine can make placement more comfortable.

Use the dressing plan supplied by your clinician. Keep the wound clean, avoid prolonged soaking, and do not apply unapproved products. Keep pressure off the area and avoid stretching movements that pull the edges apart. Wash your hands before changing a dressing. If the injury was dirty or caused by an object, ask whether tetanus vaccination needs review.

Seek prompt advice if the wound becomes increasingly red, hot, swollen, painful, or starts draining cloudy fluid. A split wound, loose suture, persistent bleeding, fever, or unpleasant smell also warrants assessment. Get urgent help for severe bleeding, new numbness, reduced movement, or an injury involving an eye, face, hand, foot, or deep puncture.

Ask what material was used, whether it dissolves, the planned review date, how to protect the wound during bathing, and when normal work or exercise can resume. Ask what signs mean the wound needs earlier assessment.