A concise, evidence-based medical tool that saves you money

Question:

Do I need stitches for a cut that is clean, shallow, and stops bleeding after I put pressure on it for 15 minutes?

Answer:

No
MedHead Confidence Score: 5
Amount Saved: $150 urgent care visit, $100 stitches cost post
Med-O-Meter

5

MedHead Message:

If you cut yourself and it’s shallow, you can’t see fat, less than 3 inches in length, the skin edges are close to each other, and it stops bleeding by 15 minutes, you are probably okay to avoid stitches. Stitches will help with healing and prevent infection. They also cost a lot if you don’t need them.

References:

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

 

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