Stitches and Suture Removal
Most minor cuts and scrapes heal on their own, with little more intervention needed than mild soap and water to keep them clean. But more serious cuts or incisions from surgical procedures may require stitches, sutures or staples to hold tissues together while they heal. The goal is to piece together the edges so that skin and other tissues can fuse back together. Then the stitches are removed.
What is the process for stitches, suture removal?
Sutures, or stitches, are either absorbable or non-absorbable. Absorbable sutures are often used for internal stitching. The material of absorbable sutures is designed to break down over time and dissolve. Non-absorbable sutures must be removed. They won’t dissolve.
The process for stitches removal for non-absorbable sutures is quite simple and can be done in our urgent care at iCare.
The skin around an incision is very weak during healing, but it will regain strength over time. Protect the area by covering it with a bandage for at least five days.
Your wound could swell, bleed, or split open if it’s stretched or bumped, so avoid activities that could cause damage.
Seeking Treatment + What To Expect
When you seek care at iCare Emergency Room and Urgent Care, you will be evaluated by board certified emergency physicians and registered nurses. Upon arrival patients receive a free medical screening evaluation to assess your healing injury and perform stitches or staple removal. Next time you become in need of emergency or urgent care, visit one of our convenient DFW locations.