Name of the Procedure:

Simple Repair of Superficial Wounds of Face, Ears, Eyelids, Nose, Lips, and/or Mucous Membranes; 2.5 cm or Less

Summary

This is a minor surgical procedure to repair small, superficial wounds on the face, ears, eyelids, nose, lips, or mucous membranes. It involves cleaning the wound and suturing the edges together to promote healing.

Purpose

The procedure addresses minor cuts or lacerations in delicate areas of the face and surrounding regions. The goal is to close the wound effectively to ensure proper healing and to minimize scarring.

Indications

• Small cuts or lacerations (2.5 cm or less) on the face, ears, eyelids, nose, lips, or mucous membranes.
• Patients who require wound closure to prevent infection and promote optimal healing.

Preparation

• Follow your healthcare provider's instructions, which may include cleaning the wound before the procedure.
• No significant preparation is generally required; however, inform the healthcare provider about any medications or allergies.
• Diagnostic tests are usually not needed unless specified by the healthcare provider.

Procedure Description

1. The area around the wound is cleaned and disinfected.
2. Local anesthesia is administered to numb the area.
3. The wound edges are approximated using fine sutures, adhesive strips, or skin glue.
4. A sterile dressing may be applied to protect the wound.

Duration

The procedure typically takes between 15 to 30 minutes.

Setting

The procedure is often performed in an outpatient clinic, doctor's office, or minor procedure room within a hospital setting.

Personnel

• Physician (e.g., family doctor, emergency physician, plastic surgeon)
• Nurse or medical assistant

Risks and Complications

• Infection
• Bleeding
• Scarring
• Allergic reaction to anesthesia
• Wound dehiscence (reopening of the wound)

Benefits

• Quick and effective wound closure
• Reduced risk of infection
• Minimization of scarring
• Rapid recovery with minimal downtime

Recovery

• Keep the wound clean and dry; follow any specific care instructions provided by your healthcare provider.
• Avoid strenuous activity that could stress the wound.
• Return for suture removal if necessary, typically within 5-7 days for facial wounds.
• Watch for signs of infection, such as increased redness, swelling, or discharge, and contact your healthcare provider if they occur.

Alternatives

• Allowing the wound to heal naturally (may result in longer healing time and greater risk of scarring).
• Glue or adhesive strips, suitable for very shallow wounds.
• Other surgical techniques for larger or more complex wounds, discussed on a case-by-case basis.

Patient Experience

During the procedure, patients will experience minimal discomfort due to local anesthesia. After the anesthesia wears off, some mild pain or tenderness can be expected, manageable with over-the-counter pain relievers. Patients will notice improvement within a few days, with most wounds healing completely within a couple of weeks.