Provider Prepared's Weekly Pearl of Wound Wisdom #25 To air or not to air?

After excellent closure of a scalp wound, those closed with staples or nonabsorbable sutures can be left open to air. After 24-48 hours, they should be gently cleansed with soap and water. 

Wounds that are small and superficial, requiring only a few staples or sutures for closure, can have suture or staple removal in 7-10 days. Larger more complex wounds should be considered for suture or staple removal after 10-14 days.

Hollander, JU et al. Assessment and management of scalp lacerations. UpToDate February 2018.

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Nathan Whittaker, MD