Name of the Procedure:

Suture of Recent Small Wounds up to 5 cm
Commonly referred to as wound stitching, wound closure, or laceration repair. The medical term is D7910.

Summary

This procedure involves sewing together the edges of a recent, small wound (up to 5 cm) using a needle and thread-like material called sutures. This helps to close the wound to promote healing, prevent infection, and minimize scarring.

Purpose

Medical Conditions or Problems it Addresses:

• Small, recent lacerations, cuts, or incisions that are up to 5 cm in length.

Goals or Expected Outcomes:

• To close the wound to facilitate proper healing.
• To prevent infection by providing a barrier.
• To minimize scarring.

Indications

Symptoms/Conditions:

• Cuts or lacerations up to 5 cm, if the wound is recent and clean.
• Non-bleeding or minimally bleeding wounds that require closure for optimal healing.

Patient Criteria or Factors:

• Healthy tissue surrounding the wound.
• No signs of severe infection or contamination in the wound area.

Preparation

Pre-procedure Instructions:

• Clean the wound gently with water or saline as instructed by healthcare provider.
• Avoid eating or drinking if instructed to do so (rarely necessary for small wound repairs).
• Inform the healthcare provider about any medications, especially blood thinners, or any allergies to anesthesia.

Diagnostic Tests or Assessments:

• Physical examination to assess the wound and determine the need for sutures.
• Tetanus shot verification, if wound is dirty or created by a rusty object.

Procedure Description

Step-by-Step Explanation:

1. Cleaning the Wound: The wound area is cleaned thoroughly using antiseptics.
2. Anesthesia: Local anesthesia is administered to numb the area.
3. Placement of Sutures: Using a needle and suture material, the healthcare provider will place stitches to close the wound.
4. Dressing the Wound: A sterile dressing is applied to protect the sutured area.

Tools, Equipment, and Technology Used:

• Antiseptic solution, local anesthetic, needle, sutures (absorbable or non-absorbable), sterile dressing.

Duration

The procedure typically takes about 10-30 minutes, depending on the size and complexity of the wound.

Setting

This procedure is often performed in an outpatient setting such as:

• Emergency room
• Outpatient clinic
• Urgent care center

Personnel

• Healthcare provider (e.g., physician or trained nurse practitioner)
• Registered nurse or medical assistant, often assisting with preparation and after-care.

Risks and Complications

Common Risks:

• Infection
• Minor bleeding

Rare Risks:

• Allergic reaction to anesthesia
• Scarring
• Suture rejection or granuloma formation

Benefits

• Reduced risk of infection
• Faster healing process
• Improved cosmetic appearance with minimized scarring

Recovery

Post-procedure Care:

• Keep the wound clean and dry.
• Follow the provider’s instructions on wound care, such as applying antibiotic ointment.
• Schedule follow-up for suture removal if non-absorbable sutures are used.

Expected Recovery Time:

• Generally, healing time is 5-10 days, but total healing may take several weeks.

Restrictions or Follow-up Appointments:

• Avoid strenuous activity that could strain the wound.
• Return for suture removal or follow-up assessment, usually within 5-14 days.

Alternatives

Other Treatment Options:

• Steri-Strips or adhesive strips
• Skin glue
• Staples (for larger wounds)

Pros and Cons:

• Steri-Strips and skin glue are less invasive but may not be suitable for deeper wounds.
• Staples are faster to apply but may leave more noticeable scars.

Patient Experience

What to Expect:

• Slight pressure or tugging sensation during the procedure due to local anesthesia.
• Mild discomfort or pain after the procedure, which can be managed with over-the-counter pain relievers.
• Sensation of pulling if non-absorbable sutures are used.

Pain Management and Comfort Measures:

• Application of ice packs to reduce swelling and discomfort.
• Prescribed or over-the-counter pain medication as needed.