Does this cut need closing?
- Is the cut deeper than ¼ inch or gaping open?
- Is it on the face, hands, genitals, or over a joint?
- Is it still bleeding after 10 minutes of firm pressure?
- Was it caused by a dirty or rusty object, or an animal bite?
- Is it more than 6–12 hours old and still open?
Stitches vs. glue vs. staples
Sutures (stitches) are best for deep, gaping, or complex wounds — especially on the face and hands. Skin glue works for small, clean, straight cuts. Staples are often used for scalp wounds and are quick to place and remove.
Timing matters
The sooner a wound is closed, the lower the infection risk and the better the cosmetic result. Many facial wounds can be closed up to 24 hours after injury. Cuts on the hands or dirty wounds may need earlier closure.
Tetanus and infection prevention
We'll clean the wound thoroughly, assess whether you need a tetanus booster, and prescribe antibiotics if the wound is high-risk. Proper closure is only one part of care — preventing infection is the other.
Come to urgent care for:
- Deep, gaping, or bleeding cuts
- Cuts on the face, hands, or over joints
- Wounds from dirty, rusty, or bite-related objects
- Cuts that may need tetanus update
Go to the ER (or call 911) for:
- Severe bleeding that won't stop after 10 minutes of pressure
- Loss of function, numbness, or exposed tendon or bone
- Large or deep wounds from major trauma
Frequently asked
How do I know if my cut needs stitches?
If it's deep, gaping, on the face or hands, or bleeding heavily after 10 minutes of pressure, it likely needs closure. When in doubt, come in.
Can a cut be too old to stitch?
Yes. The risk of infection rises with time, especially for dirty wounds. Most clean wounds can be closed within 6–12 hours; facial wounds may have a longer window.
Will I need a tetanus shot?
If your last tetanus shot was more than 5 years ago (for dirty wounds) or 10 years ago (for clean wounds), you may need a booster.