Sage-Tips

Is surgical glue better than stitches?

Several recent studies involving children and adults show that certain wounds closed with glue heal just as well as those closed with stitches, and that the cosmetic results up to a year later are comparable.

Why is glue used instead of stitches?

Skin glue is a special medical glue used to close wounds. It can be used on its own or with stitches or adhesive tape. It forms a protective waterproof covering over your wound.

How long should surgical glue stay on?

Skin glue is applied as a liquid or paste to the edges of the wound. It takes only a few minutes to set. The glue usually peels off in 5 to 7 days. The scar should take about 6 months to fade.

Can you use new skin instead of stitches?

Skin adhesive is an alternative that can be as effective as stitches when used on the appropriate wound. Usually, that means a small wound; not very deep or wide; not “dirty” or prone to infection; and not on highly mobile parts, such as joints.

Does gluing a cut leave a scar?

All wounds, whether stitched or glued, will leave a scar. Initially the scar may be red or purple in colour, and will fade to light pink, white or nearly invisible over time. This may take up to a year.

Can I peel off my surgical glue?

If the DermaBond begins to peel do not peel it off or pick at it. Please allow it to fall off naturally. This can take up to 2 weeks.

Does skin glue leave a scar?

Should a glued wound bleed?

You may have some swelling, color changes, and bloody crusting on or around the wound for 2 or 3 days. This can be normal, and doesn’t mean the glue isn’t working. The glue will naturally slough off in about 5-7 days.

Does skin glue cause scarring?

Speak to your doctor, nurse or pharmacist, or see our fact sheet Pain relief for children. All wounds, whether stitched or glued, will leave a scar. Initially the scar may be red or purple in colour, and will fade to light pink, white or nearly invisible over time. This may take up to a year.

Does surgical glue turn black?

Sometimes the glue has a purple color to it and may be mixed with blood to form a darker red or black color. This is normal.

What are the pros and cons of skin glue vs stitches?

Skin glue tends to leave little scar tissue and doesn’t seem to itch like stitches. The recovery time is quicker, I believe (not a great deal, but some). It’s obviously easier to glue the skin than stitch it. Probably less chance of an infection setting in since there are no stitches. Cosmetic has to be a big one.

What is the difference between surgical glue and surgical stitches?

Glue (Tissue Adhesive) Doctors use surgical glue — also called “tissue adhesive” or “liquid stitches”– to close both major and minor wounds, such as lacerations, incisions made during laparoscopic surgery, and wounds on the face or in the groin. Benefits of surgical glue include: Surgical glue costs more than sutures.

When is it not possible to use skin glue on a wound?

There are times when skin glue may not be possible, or may not be the best choice. Wounds that usually are not closed with skin glue include: 1) Wounds in areas of high skin tension such as the arm, leg or forehead. 2) Wounds in areas that stretch, move, or change such as over joints.

What kind of glue do you use for stitches?

Glue (Tissue Adhesive) Doctors use surgical glue — also called “tissue adhesive” or “liquid stitches”– to close both major and minor wounds, such as lacerations, incisions made during laparoscopic surgery, and wounds on the face or in the groin.