Laceration Repair Usage

Minor lacerations (shallow, small, not bleeding, and clean) may not require medical attention. Antibiotic ointment and a bandage may be all that is needed. Some lacerations do require repair. Reasons for seeking medical attention include:

• Muscle, fat, tendon, or bone is exposed
• Dirt and debris can be seen in the wound or remain after irrigation and cleaning
• It feels as if something is in the wound, even if you cannot see any debris
• Wound is at risk for developing tetanus (eg, is deep, associated with a crush injury or burn, or contaminated with feces, dirt, or saliva)
• You have never received a total of at least 3 doses of tetanus immunization (routine childhood immunizations gives a dose at ages 2, 4, 6, and 15-18 months), it has been more than 5 years since your last tetanus immunization, or you are unsure of your tetanus status
• Manifestations of tetanus develop 3-21 days after wound occurred: spasm or rigidity of muscles in jaw, neck, abdomen, or an area near the wound
• Bleeding continues after applying direct pressure for 10-15 minutes
• Edges of the wound are jagged or uneven
• Wound is more than 1/8 to 1/4 inch deep, is located over a joint, and/or extends into the joint-space (knee, knuckle, wrist, ankle)
• Edges of the wound cannot easily be moved together or aligned
• Wound is located at an area of high stress (joints, hands, feet, chest)
• To decrease risk of unsightly scarring

Note:If you are not sure if a wound needs to be repaired, go to the hospital.