Do I need stitches for a cut that I can see fat, is over a joint, doesn't stop bleeding after 15 minutes, or is greater than 3 inches?

Question:

Do I need stitches for a cut that I can see fat, is over a joint, doesn’t stop bleeding after 15 minutes, or is greater than 3 inches?

Answer:

Yes

MedHead Confidence Score: 3

Amount Saved: $1000 cost of delayed care for stitches post

Med-O-Meter

MedHead Message:

You should probably get stitches if you can see fat, which means the cut is deep enough to bring the skin together surgically. You can get steri strips over the counter or use super glue for simple cuts that aren’t over joints. Save the sutures for these more complicated cuts.

References:

https://share.upmc.com/2017/02/do-i-need-stitches/