Timing matters
The sutures are removed when the edges of the wound have firmly grown together. On the face and neck it is 4–6 days, on the torso 7–10, on the limbs and in the joint area 10–14 days, in the elderly and with diabetes mellitus the periods are longer. Early removal risks divergence of the edges, later - ingrowth of threads and the formation of a rough scar with transverse marks. The procedure takes a few minutes and is virtually painless. Absorbable sutures do not need to be removed, but inspection is still advisable.
Why bandaging is a medical procedure
Dressing is not just changing a bandage. At each visit, the surgeon assesses the condition of the wound: how is healing going, are there any signs of suppuration, dehiscence, or necrosis. It is during dressing that complications are most often identified, which at home go unnoticed until a severe stage.
In addition, the selection of the drug depends on the phase of the wound process: in the inflammation phase, some drugs are needed, in the granulation phase - completely different ones. Using a “universal” ointment at all stages slows down healing.
Clean and purulent wounds behave differently
- clean wound - sutured, heals by primary intention, dressings are less frequent, the task is not to cause infection
- purulent wound - requires daily treatment, washing, removal of discharge and necrotic tissue
When are the stitches removed?
The duration depends on the location and blood supply to the tissues: on the face - 4-6 days, on the torso - 7-10, on the limbs and in the joint area - 10-14 days. Removal too early leads to separation of the edges, too late - to a rough scar with transverse marks from the threads.