Why is this procedure done?
The skin protects the inside of the body from the outside world. A wound is an injury to the skin that "breaks " � the barrier to the outside. When the skin is damaged or broken open, the wound can become infected or bleed. � �
Skin may be damaged in many ways, resulting in a wound. The body can heal wounds in the skin, but some diseases and healthcare problems can slow down healing. � �
Cuts and scrapes are one type of wound. Scrapes on the surface leave deeper skin layers in place. These are often caused by friction or rubbing against a rough surface. � �
Another kind is a puncture wound. This comes from something like a bite or stepping on a nail. Puncture wounds are caused by a pointed or sharp object, such as a nail or needle, entering the skin. Bleeding can be very little, and the wound may be hard to see. � �
Bites from a human or an animal always have germs in them and need extra care. � �
Healing is the response to injury. There are many stages to healing, and scars can form during healing. Full healing of a wound may take a few weeks. Wound care should be repeated to let the injured skin heal. � �
Good wound care can limit the chance of infection and limit scars. � �
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What happens before the procedure?
Different kinds of wounds may need different types of care. This is based on how they happened and how bad they are. Your doctor will look at your wound and decide how to treat it. Some wounds are closed with strips of tape, special skin glue, stitches, or staples. Some wounds need a surgeon to do the repair. � �
- Your doctor will take your history. Talk to your doctor about:
- All the drugs you are taking. Be sure to include all prescription and over-the-counter (OTC) drugs, and herbal supplements. Tell the doctor about any drug allergy. Bring a list of drugs you take with you.
- Any bleeding problems. Be sure to tell your doctor if you are taking any drugs that may cause bleeding. Some of these are Coumadin � �, ibuprofen, Aleve � � (naproxen), or aspirin. Certain vitamins and herbs, such as garlic and fish oil, may also add to the risk for bleeding. You may need to stop these drugs as well. Talk to your doctor about them.
- If you will need someone to drive you home
What happens during the procedure?
- Your wound is cleaned using a special soap.
- The doctor may give you a drug to numb the area.
- Abrasions
- Most often, abrasions only need cleaning and a bandage.
- The doctor may put a thin layer of antibiotic ointment on your wound and cover it with a bandage.
- Puncture Wounds
- These wounds may or may not need to have stitches. This will depend on what has caused the wound, how bad the puncture is, and where it is located on the body.
- The doctor may order drugs to prevent infection. This is more common with animal bites.
- The time the procedure will take depends on the size of the wound and how much cleaning is needed.
What happens after the procedure?
Most often, you will be able to go home after the procedure. � �
What drugs may be needed?
The doctor may order drugs to: � �
- Help with pain
- Prevent infection
You may need to have a tetanus shot. � �
What problems could happen?
- Bleeding
- Infection
- Scarring
- Poor healing
Where can I learn more?
Better Health Channel � �
http://www.betterhealth.vic.gov.au/bhcv2/bhcarticles.nsf/7592e11bd8a23ae0ca256f70007a95f7/2f56b20850d481c4ca2572330024859c?OpenDocument � �
FamilyDoctor.org � �
http://familydoctor.org/familydoctor/en/prevention-wellness/staying-healthy/first-aid/first-aid-cuts-scrapes-and-stitches.html � �
Consumer Information Use and Disclaimer
This information is not specific medical advice and does not replace information you receive from your health care provider. This is only a brief summary of general information. It does NOT include all information about conditions, illnesses, injuries, tests, procedures, treatments, therapies, discharge instructions or life-style choices that may apply to you. You must talk with your health care provider for complete information about your health and treatment options. This information should not be used to decide whether or not to accept your health care providers advice, instructions or recommendations. Only your health care provider has the knowledge and training to provide advice that is right for you. � �
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