Find care near me Key Points
- Stitches, or sutures, are surgical threads that aid in wound healing, minimizing scarring, and preventing infections.
- The materials used to make stitches can vary, including silk, nylon, or dissolvable material which doesn't require removal.
- The type of stitches used depends on the nature and location of the wound, with dissolvable stitches often used for deep wounds.
- Medical attention should be sought for certain types of cuts, such as those on the face or hands, those that are deep or gaping, or those that impair the function of a body part.
- Stitches can be obtained at urgent care centers, and the procedure is generally painless, promoting wound healing without scarring or infection.
Stitches – known as sutures in the medical field – are a type of surgical thread that are used to sew up wounds to promote healing and prevent scarring and infections. Stitches can be made out of a variety of materials, including silk or nylon, and can even be made of dissolvable material so they don’t have to be removed. The nature and location of the cut determines the type of stitches that will be used. Dissolvable stitches are typically used in deep wounds. Traditional stitches (stitches that will need to be removed by a doctor) can be in place from anywhere to a couple of days to a couple of weekends, depending on the location and severity.
But, how can you tell if you need stitches? At first glance, it’s not always easy to determine if a cut requires stitches. Generally speaking, you should seek medical attention for a cut that is:
- Located on your face, hands, or other part of your body where you’re worried you may scar
- Bleeding profusely and/or won’t stop bleeding after approximately 20 minutes of pressure
- Deep and/or gaping
- Located on an area of the body that doesn’t function properly after being cut, like a hand or knee
Did you know that you can get stitches at urgent care?
If you’re unsure if you require stitches, it’s always best to be safe and get a consultation from a medical professional. Getting stitches is a painless procedure and helps wounds heal without scarring or infection.
Frequently asked questions
What are stitches and what is their purpose?
Stitches, also known as sutures in the medical field, are surgical threads used to sew up wounds. They help wounds heal, minimize scarring, and prevent infections.What materials are stitches made from?
Stitches can be made from various materials, including silk, nylon, or a dissolvable material that doesn't need to be removed.How is the type of stitch determined for a wound?
The type of stitch used depends on the nature and location of the wound. For example, dissolvable stitches are typically used for deep wounds.When should I seek medical attention for a cut?
You should seek medical attention for a cut if it's located on the face or hands, if it's bleeding profusely, if it's deep or gaping, or if it affects the function of a body part.Where can I get stitches?
Stitches can be obtained at urgent care centers or other healthcare facilities.Is getting stitches a painful procedure?
No, getting stitches is generally a painless procedure. Local anesthesia is often used to numb the area around the wound.How long do traditional stitches stay in place?
Traditional stitches, which need to be removed by a doctor, can stay in place from a few days to a couple of weeks, depending on the location and severity of the wound.What happens if I'm unsure whether I need stitches or not?
If you're unsure whether you need stitches or not, it's best to seek a consultation from a medical professional who can assess the wound and provide advice.
