Figure 2-13. The subcuticular suture.
2-8.
SUTURE REMOVAL
a. General Considerations. Suture removal should be timely enough to avoid
suture marks, yet not so soon as to risk the wound splitting open. SeeTable 2-1 for the
approximate times for suture removal by body region. When the patient returns for
suture removal, assess the wound to be sure it is mature enough for suture removal. If
the wound is not sufficiently healed, tell the patient to return in two days for suture
removal. When you are removing sutures, be certain to cut only the thread of the suture
loop and not two threads. Otherwise, part of the suture will be retained below the skin
surface.
Adult (days)
Children (days)
Face
4-5
3-4
Scalp
6-7
5-6
Trunk
7 -10
6-8
Arm (not joints)
7 -10
5-9
Leg (not joints)
8 -10
6-8
Joint
Extensor surface
8 -14
7 -12
Flexor surface
8 -10
6-8
Dorsum of hand
7-9
5-7
Palm
7 -12
7 -10
Sole of foot
7 -12
7 -10
Table 2-1. Suture removal days for different body parts.
MD0574
2-24