Name of the Procedure:

Simple repair of superficial wounds of face, ears, eyelids, nose, lips and/or mucous membranes; 7.6 cm to 12.5 cm

Summary

This procedure involves the suturing or closing of superficial (skin-deep) wounds on the face, ears, eyelids, nose, lips, or mucous membranes. The wound size typically ranges from 7.6 cm to 12.5 cm in length. This is considered a straightforward and minimally invasive procedure.

Purpose

The procedure addresses minor to moderate lacerations or cuts on the aforementioned areas. The primary goal is to promote proper healing, minimize scarring, and restore the normal appearance and function of the affected area.

Indications

• Cuts or lacerations on the face, ears, eyelids, nose, lips, or mucous membranes that are 7.6 cm to 12.5 cm in length.
• Post-trauma or surgical incisions that have resulted in superficial wounds.
• Patients who require prompt wound closure to prevent infection and ensure optimal cosmetic outcomes.

Preparation

• No eating or drinking for at least 6 hours before the procedure if sedation is used.
• Patients may be advised to stop certain medications that can affect blood clotting.
• The affected area will be cleaned and possibly shaved if necessary.
• Local anesthesia and, in some cases, sedation will be discussed and prepared.

Procedure Description

1. The patient is positioned comfortably, and the wound area is cleaned and sterilized.
2. Local anesthesia is administered to numb the area.
3. The wound edges are carefully aligned and sutured using fine stitches.
4. In some cases, adhesive strips or skin glue may be used in addition to or instead of sutures.
5. A sterile dressing is applied to protect the wound.

Duration

The procedure typically takes about 30 minutes to an hour, depending on the complexity and exact length of the wound.

Setting

This procedure is usually performed in an outpatient setting, such as a hospital or an outpatient clinic.

Personnel

• Primary care physician or emergency room doctor skilled in wound repair.
• Nurse or medical assistant to assist and manage post-procedure care.
• In certain cases, a plastic surgeon may be involved for optimal cosmetic results.

Risks and Complications

• Infection
• Scarring
• Bleeding or hematoma formation
• Allergic reactions to local anesthetics
• In rare cases, wound dehiscence or reopening

Benefits

• Faster healing
• Reduced risk of infection
• Improved cosmetic outcome
• Minimal scarring when properly performed
• Immediate return to normal activities for minor wounds

Recovery

• Keep the wound clean and dry for the first 24-48 hours.
• Follow any specific wound care instructions provided.
• Avoid strenuous activities that could stress the wound area.
• Follow-up visit may be scheduled to remove sutures if non-absorbable sutures were used and to monitor healing.
• Recovery typically occurs within 7-14 days, with full skin healing in a few weeks.

Alternatives

• Delayed primary closure, which may be preferred in contaminated wounds
• Non-surgical management like adhesive bandages for very minor wounds
• Advanced wound care products like hydrocolloid dressings
• Pros: some alternatives may be less invasive or require no anesthesia; cons: may not be suitable for all wounds and can have a higher risk of poor cosmetic outcomes.

Patient Experience

• The patient may feel a slight prick during the anesthetic injection but should feel no pain during the suturing.
• Mild discomfort or tightness around the wound area post-procedure.
• Pain can be managed with over-the-counter pain relief medications as prescribed.
• Patients may feel the edges of sutures; any unusual sensations or concerns should be promptly addressed with the healthcare provider.

By following these guidelines, patients can expect proper healing and minimized scarring from their superficial wound repair procedure.