Laceration Care

After a thorough history of the injury and physical exam of the wound, the wound will first be cleaned with soap and water, followed by betadine or alcohol. Occasionally, an x-ray is necessary to evaluate for foreign bodies or debris in the wound. After cleaning the wound, the clinician will decide on which is the best method for closing the wound. The different options for wound closure include:

• Skin glue: This is best for lacerations that are rather shallow and not long. The glue helps hold the skin together and creates a barrier over the wound.
• Steri-strips: For longer wounds on the arms or legs that are shallow and bleeding is minimal often times sutures can be avoided with the use of steri-strips.
• Staples: Although staples can be used in a variety of situations of lacerations they are most commonly used for lacerations in the scalp.
• Sutures: Sutures are the most versatile approach and can be used to close any wound needing closure.

What Steps Should be Taken After Wound Closure?

One of the most important aspects of wound management is preventing infection. Infection in a cut can delay healing significantly. It is important to clean the wound twice a day with soap and warm water and always monitor for signs of infection. Signs of infection can include:

• Redness around the wound
• Swelling around the cut
• Increased pain
• Warmth to the touch of the skin around the laceration
• Discharge of mucus from the laceration
• Fever

When Should You See a Doctor for a Laceration?

Often times, lacerations will require visiting an urgent care. Consider visiting one of our friendly clinicians for any of the following reasons:

• Cuts that appear to be deep
• Cuts in places where you want to reduce the appearance of a scar
• Cuts where bleeding won’t stop or is very difficult to stop
• Cuts where contamination is an issue (dirty water, cut by rusty metal, etc.)