What size scalp laceration requires stitches?
In general, a 3–0 or 4–0 suture is appropriate on the trunk, 4–0 or 5–0 on the extremities and scalp, and 5–0 or 6–0 on the face. Blue-colored sutures may be beneficial for scalp lacerations in appropriate populations to differentiate the suture from the hair.
Do scalp lacerations need stitches?
A laceration is a cut through the skin. A scalp laceration may require stitches or staples. It may also be closed with a hair positioning technique such as braiding. There are a lot of blood vessels in the scalp.
What size suture should be used for scalp torso or hands?
3-0: Used in areas requiring good retention, i.e. scalp, torso, and hands.
How do I know what size sutures to use?
Most commonly, you will use a suture somewhere between 3-0 and 6-0. Small sutures, such as 5-0 and 6-0 are used on the face. Larger sutures, 3-0 and 4-0, are best for areas where appearance is not of great concern such as the extremities.
What sutures to use for scalp?
Fast-absorbing gut and, for scalp lacerations, coated polyglactin 910 [Vicryl Rapide®] are appropriate for skin sutures. Nonabsorbable suture will not resorb within 60 days. Nylon (Dermalon®, Ethilon®), Polybutester (Novafil®), and polypropylene (Surgilene®, Prolene®) are commonly used.
When do you stitch a scalp laceration?
Your wound likely requires stitches if:
- it’s deeper or longer than half an inch.
- it’s deep enough that fatty tissue, muscle, or bone is exposed.
- it’s wide or gaping.
What is a 3-0 suture?
the larger the suture diameter, the relatively stronger it is. measured in metric units (tenths of a millimeter) or by a numeric scale standardized by USP regulations. USP scale runs from 11-0 (smallest) to #7 (largest) zeros are written as 2-0 for 00 and 3-0 for 000, etc. for convenience and clarity.
When do you stitch a scalp wound?
You’ll likely need stitches if the wound: Bleeds enough to soak through a bandage. Keeps bleeding even after you apply direct pressure for 5 to 10 minutes. Spurts blood.