Name of the Procedure:

Repair, intermediate, wounds of face, ears, eyelids, nose, lips, and/or mucous membranes; 20.1 cm to 30.0 cm
Common name(s): Intermediate facial wound repair, intermediate wound closure

Summary

This procedure involves the surgical repair of wounds on the face, ears, eyelids, nose, lips, and/or mucous membranes, specifically those that are 20.1 cm to 30.0 cm in length. It typically requires suturing to ensure proper healing and cosmetic appearance.

Purpose

The purpose of this procedure is to treat and close intermediate-depth wounds, which involve multiple layers but are not as severe as complex repairs. The goal is to promote effective healing, reduce infection risk, and achieve a desirable cosmetic outcome.

Indications

• Lacerations or cuts on the face, ears, eyelids, nose, lips, and mucous membranes
• Wound length between 20.1 cm to 30.0 cm
• Injuries that do not involve significant tissue loss or require extensive work on deeper layers

Preparation

• The patient may need to fast if sedation or anesthesia will be used.
• Pre-procedure blood tests or imaging to assess the wound extent.
• Adjustment of medications, especially anticoagulants, as directed by the physician.

Procedure Description

1. Anesthesia: Local anesthesia is typically administered around the wound site. General anesthesia may be used for more extensive repairs.
2. Cleansing: The wound area is thoroughly cleansed to prevent infection.
3. Debridement: Removal of any dead or contaminated tissue.
4. Suturing: The wound is closed using layered sutures. This involves closing deeper layers first, followed by the superficial layers, to ensure structural integrity and good cosmetic results.
5. Dressing: A sterile dressing or bandage is applied to the repaired site.

Tools: Surgical sutures, needle holders, scissors, antiseptic solutions
Anesthesia: Local or general, depending on wound complexity and patient comfort

Duration

The procedure typically takes between 30 minutes to 1 hour, depending on wound complexity.

Setting

This procedure can be performed in a hospital operating room, outpatient clinic, or a surgical center.

Personnel

• Surgeon or plastic surgeon
• Surgical nurse
• Anesthesiologist (if general anesthesia is used)

Risks and Complications

• Infection
• Bleeding
• Scarring
• Nerve damage
• Allergic reaction to anesthesia
• Poor cosmetic outcome

Benefits

• Proper wound closure aiding in faster, more efficient healing
• Reduced risk of infection
• Improved cosmetic appearance
• Minimized scarring when done by skilled professionals

Recovery

• Keep the wound clean and dry for the first 24-48 hours.
• Follow wound care instructions provided by healthcare professionals.
• Stitches are generally removed within 5-14 days, depending on the location and healing rate.
• Avoid strenuous activity that may stress the wound.
• Follow-up appointments to monitor healing and remove sutures.

Alternatives

• Primary closure without intermediate repair (may not be suitable for larger wounds)
• Skin grafts or flaps for very extensive or complex wounds
• Non-surgical wound care with dressings and bandages (less effective for deeper wounds)

Patient Experience

During the procedure, patients may feel a slight pinch or tugging sensation if local anesthesia is used. Post-procedure, there might be some discomfort or mild pain at the wound site, which can be managed with prescribed pain relievers and over-the-counter medications. Overall comfort measures will be taken to ensure the patient experiences minimal discomfort.