Name of the Procedure:

Simple repair of superficial wounds of face, ears, eyelids, nose, lips and/or mucous membranes; 5.1 cm to 7.5 cm. Common name(s): Superficial wound repair, Facial wound suturing

Summary

This procedure involves closing and repairing superficial wounds on the face, ears, eyelids, nose, lips, or mucous membranes. It is generally performed using sutures to promote healing and minimize scarring.

Purpose

The medical condition: Superficial wounds on the specified areas. Goals/expected outcomes: To promote healing, reduce the risk of infection, minimize scarring, and restore the function and appearance of the affected area.

Indications

• Lacerations or cuts on the face, ears, eyelids, nose, lips, or mucous membranes measuring between 5.1 cm and 7.5 cm.
• Cosmetic or functional concerns due to the location of the wound.
• Patient criteria: Generally suitable for patients of all ages, provided they do not have contraindications like severe uncontrolled bleeding disorders or infections.

Preparation

• Pre-procedure instructions: Clean the wound area gently and avoid applying any creams or ointments unless instructed. Follow any specific fasting or medication adjustment guidelines if sedation is planned.
• Diagnostic tests: Possibly none, unless the provider deems further assessment necessary (e.g., imaging for deeper injuries or infection).

Procedure Description

1. Preparation: The affected area is cleaned and disinfected.
2. Anesthesia: Local anesthesia is administered to numb the area.
3. Wound Inspection: The healthcare provider inspects the wound to ensure no foreign materials and to assess tissue damage.
4. Suturing: Using sterile techniques, sutures are carefully placed to close the wound.
5. Dressing: A sterile dressing or adhesive strip is applied to protect the wound.

Tools and equipment: Suture kits, disinfectants, sterile gloves, local anesthetics, dressings.

Duration

The procedure typically takes 30 to 60 minutes, depending on the complexity and size of the wound.

Setting

This procedure can be performed in an outpatient clinic, emergency department, or surgical center.

Personnel

• Healthcare professionals involved: Primary care physician, plastic surgeon, nurse, and possibly an anesthesiologist (if sedation beyond local anesthesia is needed).

Risks and Complications

• Common risks: Infection, bleeding, scarring.
• Rare risks: Reaction to anesthesia, wound dehiscence (reopening), keloid formation.
• Management: Follow-up care, antibiotics for infection, and wound management strategies.

Benefits

• Promotes faster and more aesthetic healing.
• Reduces the risk of complications like infection.
• Immediate benefits of closing the wound and reducing bleeding.

Recovery

• Post-procedure care: Keep the wound clean and dry, follow wound care instructions, change dressings as recommended.
• Recovery time: Approximately one to two weeks, depending on healing factors.
• Restrictions: Avoid strenuous activities that might stress the wound area, monitor for signs of infection.
• Follow-up appointments: Typically scheduled to remove sutures and assess healing.

Alternatives

• Non-suturing options: Adhesive strips, skin glue, staples.
• Pros and cons: Non-suturing may be less invasive but might not be suitable for larger or cosmetically sensitive areas; suturing provides more reliable closure and healing for larger wounds.

Patient Experience

• During the procedure: The patient may feel pressure but should not feel pain due to local anesthesia.
• After the procedure: Some soreness or tenderness is expected. Pain can usually be managed with over-the-counter pain relievers. Comfort measures include proper wound care, avoiding unnecessary touching or stressing the area.