What is a Laceration Repair?
A laceration repair is used to close a gap in the soft tissue due to a cut or other injury. The method of laceration repair will depend on the location, size, and severity of the cut or wound. A laceration repair might include sutures, adhesives, staples, and tapes to close the skin.
Signs you Need a Laceration Repair
Many minor cuts and wounds can be cleaned and treated at home. If the cut is shallow, applying pressure might be enough to stop the bleeding, allowing the cut to close safely on its own. In some cases, medical attention is needed. Signs that you need a laceration repair include:
- Exposed deep layers of tissue (fat, muscle, or bone)
- Bleeding that does not stop after 10-15 minutes of applied pressure
- A deep cut (1/4 inch or more)
- A cut or wound in a sensitive area (the face, hands, joints, etc.)
What to Expect During Laceration Repair
A laceration repair can involve one of several methods. After the laceration is carefully examined to determine the severity and tissues involved, the best method of repair will be decided. This might include:
- Liquid adhesives such as glue – Used for cuts not on the joints
- Adhesive strips – Used for cuts with clean edges that can be easily held together
- Stitches – Used for deep cuts with jagged edges or exposed tissue
The goal of laceration repair is to stop bleeding, avoid infection, and restore the function of the tissue involved.
Recovery from Laceration Repair
After your laceration repair, you should keep the wound clean and dry to reduce any risk of infection. Your physician will provide you with any specific aftercare instructions for you to follow. A second appointment might be required to remove sutures or stitches.
if you experience a cut or wound that requires laceration repair, visit Springfield Urgent Care. A physician can examine the wound and provide the necessary method for repair.
