Wound Suturing

Wounds that need stitches are seen walk-in. The sooner they are closed, the better they heal and the lower the risk of infection.

Which wounds need stitches?

• Cuts with separated edges that do not come together on their own
• Wounds deeper than the skin, where fat is visible
• Cuts over moving areas, such as hands, fingers or joints
• Bleeding that does not stop after ten minutes of firm pressure
• Wounds on the face, where the cosmetic result matters

The time window

Most wounds close best within the first few hours. Beyond that, infection risk rises and sometimes it is better to leave the wound open and let it heal from within. So if your wound is one of the above, do not wait until tomorrow.

What happens at the visit?

The wound is cleaned thoroughly, the area is numbed and it is closed with stitches, staples or adhesive depending on the type and location. Your tetanus status is checked and home care is explained.

Aftercare

• Keep the area clean and dry for the first 24 to 48 hours
• Do not soak the stitches in a pool or bath until they are removed
• Come back if spreading redness, warmth, pus, fever or increasing pain appear
• Stitches come out within a few days on the face, and later on hands and joints: you are given the date

When to go to the emergency room

Bleeding that does not stop with pressure, a wound from a weapon or a deep bite, loss of sensation or movement, or a wound with an object still embedded in it.

Walk-in and no insurance

Monday through Sunday, 9 AM to 9 PM. The cost is given before starting.