Not every wound needs stitches — the decision depends on wound depth, location, and mechanism of injury.
Needs Suturing:
- Depth more than 5mm: Reaches subcutaneous fat — must be closed.
- Gaping edges: Wound edges don't come together automatically.
- Facial wound: Even if small — for cosmetic outcome.
- Wound over a joint: Movement keeps it open.
- Continuous bleeding: Doesn't stop with 10 minutes of pressure.
- Deep tissue visible: Fat, muscle, or tendons are exposed.
Doesn't Need Suturing:
- Superficial scratch — only outer skin.
- Small straight wound with edges already touching.
- Wound older than 12-24 hours (depending on location) — contaminated.
- Animal bite (usually left open to prevent infection).
Suturing Alternatives:
- Steri-Strips: Adhesive strips — for superficial straight wounds.
- Skin glue (Dermabond): For small clean wounds — especially in children.
At BEIT TARIQ Center, we evaluate every wound and choose the optimal method — sutures or alternatives as needed.