Stitches and Sutures for Wounds and Lacerations Topic Guide

Many different types of animals can bite adults and children, ranging from dogs, cats, hamsters, raccoons, ferrets, and squirrels. Many times, bites are from the family pet. Fist aid for an animal bite consists of getting to a safe area away from the animal, apply pressure to any areas that are bleeding, and call 911. Animal bite treatments depends on the type of bite, and severity.

Catfish stings occur when a person accidentally steps on a catfish, or handles it after catching it. Stinging catfish have external spines near their fins that sting. Catfish sting treatment includes removing the spines with tweezers, wound irrigation, and antibiotics to avoid possible infection.

Mouth wounds are common in adults and children. Common causes include trauma by a sharp object or the person's own teeth. Symptoms of a mouth wound include cuts, lacerations, puncture wounds, and cuts across the lips vermilion border. Treatments include home-care, antibiotics, and stitches.

Stitches or sutures are methods used to close wounds, cuts, lacerations, or surgical procedures. There are two types of sutures, absorbable and nonabsorbable. Other methods of closing open wounds include surgical staples, skin closure tape, and adhesive agents. Sutures should be removed by a health care professional. Complications from sutures include keloids, wound infection or reopening, excessive scarring, and hypertrophic scars.

Sea stars (starfish) and crown of thorns are both bottom dwellers. They can puncture the skin, causing pain. Symptoms and signs of starfish or crown of thorns puncture wounds include pain, bleeding, inflammation at the injury site, nausea, vomiting, weakness, numbness, and paralysis (in rare cases). Treatment methods include cleaning the area, removing any spines if possible, applying antibiotic cream, and taking oral antibiotics if infection occurs. Sea stars and crown of thorns punctures may need to be treated by a doctor.