answersLogoWhite

0


Best Answer

Because after a certain time the edges of the wound have healed over, so would not heal to each other if they were stitched together. (If you did need the wound stitched after the edges of the wound had healed, some of the healed skin would have to be cut away, then the edges could be stitched together).

User Avatar

Wiki User

13y ago
This answer is:
User Avatar

Add your answer:

Earn +20 pts
Q: Why can you not get stitches to close a wound after a certain time?
Write your answer...
Submit
Still have questions?
magnify glass
imp
Related questions

How many stitches does it take to cover a half inch cut?

A wound is one thing that is always unique; no two wounds are ever exactly the same in length or depth. We have all had a minor cut, such as a paper cut. These are superficial wounds, because they only affect the first layer of skin. The edges of a superficial wound are usually straight, and the edges naturally stay close together. A deeper superficial wound may only need a "butterfly strip" to keep the edges together so it can heal. However, other wounds are deeper. We might call the wound a "gash", because the edges are open. We can often see into the wound to the tissues under the skin. A gash always needs stitches. The number of stitches depends on how deep the gash is; how long the wound is; and whether it is a straight line wound or a jagged edge wound. Stitches begin inside a deeper wound, using special "thread" that the body will dissolve over time as the wound heals. The stitches are used in layers, from the inside out (sort of like pressing the bottom of a almost empty tube, until you get to the top). The deepest part may only need 1 stitch, but it could need many stitches. The next layer often needs more stitches along the INNER length of the wound. On MOST wounds, there is one inner layer and one skin layer, but there could be more layers used on the inside, depending on the depth of the wound. As one example, I stepped on the lid of a can from cat food. The metal is very sharp, but circular and easily bent (so it causes ragged wound edges inside). So the metal would make a shorter cut inside than it would at the skin-- the skin wound would be much longer. The E.R. doctor put in two stitches at the deepest part; then three at the next layer; and 5 on top of that because the metal had bent as I stepped on it, making the wound more jagged inside. He closed the skin layer with 7 stitches. But one stitch at the end of the wound made the skin pucker; it needed removed and they put two stitches there instead. Every wound is different. The number of stitches needed cannot be known until after a doctor assesses the wound. The doctor will use only enough stitches to keep the edges, inside and out, close together so the body will begin to fill in the wound with granulation cells that repair the wound. Not all wounds leave scars, but some do.


How long do you keep stitches dry after getting them?

You have to keep stitches dry for at least two days after getting them. You should check with your doctor to see if they should be kept dry for a longer period of time.


How do you know you need stitches?

Determining whether you need stitches involves assessing the severity of a wound. Here are signs that may indicate stitches are necessary: Depth of the wound: If the wound is deep and extends beyond the top layer of skin (epidermis) into the underlying tissues, stitches may be needed. Wounds with jagged or gaping edges may also require closure. Size of the Wound: Larger wounds may need stitches to promote proper healing and reduce the risk of infection. If the wound is longer than half an inch or an inch, especially on visible parts of the body, it may require stitches. Location of the wound: Wounds on joints, such as knees or elbows, or areas that move frequently may benefit from stitches to prevent the skin from pulling apart during movement. Wounds on the face, especially if they are deep or involve the lips, may need stitches to minimise scarring. Bleeding: If the wound is bleeding heavily and the bleeding does not stop with direct pressure, stitches may be necessary to close the wound and control the bleeding. Foreign Objects: If there are foreign objects, such as glass or debris, embedded in the wound, medical attention is needed to clean the wound and potentially close it with stitches. Wound Shape: Irregularly shaped wounds or those with uneven edges may require stitches for proper closure. Cleanliness of the wound: If a wound is difficult to clean or has a high risk of infection (such as bites), stitches may be recommended to minimise infection risk. Time Since Injury: Delayed treatment of a wound may reduce the effectiveness of stitches. In general, wounds that are closed within the first six hours have a lower risk of infection. If you experience any of these signs, it's advisable to seek medical attention promptly. A healthcare professional can assess the wound, determine whether stitches are needed, and provide appropriate care to promote optimal healing. If in doubt, it's better to consult with a healthcare provider rather than risk inadequate wound closure and potential complications.


Are there fridges that automatically close after a certain amount of time?

No, there are not any fridges that will automatically close after a certain amount of time.


Why does thread stick out of a surgical wound?

The thread are sutures used to close the skin over a wound. These will be removed after a period of time when it has healed or will dissolve itself.


Why does your batch file close every time?

If a batch file closes every time, it may have a problem. It might close after a certain period of time, or if it has remains inactive for a certain period of time.


Is it bad to take out stitches before you are supposed to?

That is all relative. If they are in an extra day or two, it doesn't usually hurt anything. Leaving them in for several days too long can cause some problems though. This can include skin irritation, infection, and increased scarring.


How do you treat an open leg wound from a razor that is split open about 1.5 cm wide and is deep enough to see the fatty tissue inside?

It must be cleaned out and stitched by a doctor. It would have to be bandage for a short period of time. Stitches would come out in a week or two depending on the wound.


Is it safe to go in river water after stitches have been taken out?

You should follow medical advice offered at the time of removing any wound covering or repair. Until a wound is fully healed then you are always at risk of infection


When is the best time to remove stitches from a cut below the eyebrow?

Laser to remove stitches from eye surgery


Is there anything safe you can put on the stiff stitches after spaying to keep them from sticking to the dog's skin?

Sometimes when the vet has spayed the dog they can often end the stitching (a knot) leaving a piece of the stitch too long that can dig into the dog's belly. Either you can cut off the extra or take the dog back to the vet (there should be no additional cost for this) and have them check the stitches out. Stitches don't stick to the skin, but are sewn in. The vet would have told you when to bring the dog back to have the stitches removed. If the wound looks good and the dog is irritated by the stitches (each dog, just like a human can heal quickly or slowly) perhaps it's time for the dog to have the stitches out. See your vet right away!


What can you use at home for a gash wound across face?

Any time a wound has these characteristics, you need to seek medical attention on the same day the wound occurs; e.g. as soon as possible:you can see into the woundyou see fat layers inside the woundyou see anything in the woundthe wound's edges are not close together; for example, the edges stay together with a paper cutthe wound's edges move apart if not held togetherthe wound's edges are ragged or jagged, versus straight "clean" cutthe wound is still bleeding even with pressure appliedthe wound was made by anything metalthe wound was made by anything that is left outsideAny wound to the face or head will heal the BEST with medical attention. Both the face and head are highly vascular-- have lots of blood vessels. The face has many nerves also. Within hours, swelling WILL occur and make a wound to the face or head more difficult to stitch. There can be nerve damage if left to heal on its own. As well, scars happen more frequently with NO treatment; stitches will minimize any scarring.The E.R. doctor will provide medications and instructions for wound dressing and wound care.