What's Going Around: Treating Lacerations
Doctors: Deep Wounds Should Be Sewn Up In 3 To 12 Hours
Updated: 1:07 pm CDT May 14, 2007
MADISON, Wis. -- Spring is the time of year when many people are spending more time outdoors playing sports, doing yard work or riding bikes. It's also the time when more children and adults end up with cuts and scrapes from being active.
VIDEO: Watch The ReportMany times lacerations can be treated properly at home, but there are other times those injuries need professional medical attention, WISC-TV reported.Many doctors said that there are tell-tale signs that a wound needs professional attention that can be determined with the eye. If the wound appears to be gaping, deep or if fatty tissue is visible, the person should be seen in an emergency room or urgent care clinic, they said.Doctors also recommend acting quickly if there is any concern about the severity of the cut, WISC-TV reported."One of the things we see all too frequently is that people think they will see their doctors the next day," said Dr. Kevin O'Connell of Meriter Hospital. "If a wound is not sewn up usually within 3 to 12 hours, you have a very high risk of getting an infection. As soon as you have the wound is when it should be evaluated."For wounds that can be treated at home, doctors said to make sure to wash them with soap and warm water, keep it covered and always use over-the-counter antibiotics like Neosporin, WISC-TV reported.
VIDEO: Watch The ReportMany times lacerations can be treated properly at home, but there are other times those injuries need professional medical attention, WISC-TV reported.Many doctors said that there are tell-tale signs that a wound needs professional attention that can be determined with the eye. If the wound appears to be gaping, deep or if fatty tissue is visible, the person should be seen in an emergency room or urgent care clinic, they said.Doctors also recommend acting quickly if there is any concern about the severity of the cut, WISC-TV reported."One of the things we see all too frequently is that people think they will see their doctors the next day," said Dr. Kevin O'Connell of Meriter Hospital. "If a wound is not sewn up usually within 3 to 12 hours, you have a very high risk of getting an infection. As soon as you have the wound is when it should be evaluated."For wounds that can be treated at home, doctors said to make sure to wash them with soap and warm water, keep it covered and always use over-the-counter antibiotics like Neosporin, WISC-TV reported.Copyright 2007 by Channel 3000. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.
