What are staples and sutures?
Staples are small metal clips that hold a wound closed. Sutures are what most people call stitches, and are typically made of a material similar, but stronger, than thread. Both staples and sutures are used to hold a wound closed to promote healing.
Who is staple/suture removal recommended for?
It is important for staples and sutures to be removed in a timely manner to prevent scarring and inflammation. Staples and sutures removed too early or too late can lead to scarring, infection, re-opening, delayed healing, and other complications. Staples and sutures should typically be left in for the following amounts of time, though your healthcare provider will give you specific instructions based on your individual wound.
- Face: 3-4 days
- Neck: 5 days
- Scalp: 6-7 days
- Arms and back of hands: 7 days
- Chest and abdomen: 7-10 days
- Legs and top of feet: 10 days
- Back: 10-12 days
- Palms of hands and soles of feet: 14 days
Visit a Take Care Health Provider for evaluation of your wound to determine if removal of your staples or sutures may be performed at the clinic. Take Care Health Providers currently offer removal of staples and sutures only – not initial placement of staples or sutures.