From the FDA Drug Label
Directions adults and children 2 years of age and older: clean the affected area apply a small amount of this product (an amount equal to the surface area of the tip of a finger) on the area 1 to 3 times daily may be covered with a sterile bandage The recommended wound care for a patient with large scabbing after suture removal is to clean the affected area and apply a small amount of product, which may be covered with a sterile bandage. The application should be done 1 to 3 times daily 1.
- Key steps:
- Clean the affected area
- Apply a small amount of product
- Cover with a sterile bandage (optional)
- Apply 1 to 3 times daily
From the Research
For large scabbing after suture removal, it is crucial to keep the area clean and moist to promote healing, and applying a thin layer of antibiotic ointment, such as triple antibiotic solution (neomycin, polymyxin, and bacitracin), can provide broad-spectrum antimicrobial activity 2. When caring for a wound with large scabbing after suture removal, it is essential to prioritize techniques that enhance healing while minimizing the risk of infection.
- Gently washing the wound daily with mild soap and water, then patting it dry with a clean towel, helps remove debris and bacteria.
- Applying a thin layer of antibiotic ointment, such as triple antibiotic solution, which includes neomycin, polymyxin, and bacitracin, as suggested by 2, provides the most complete coverage against organisms likely to cause infections in surgical cases.
- Covering the wound with a non-stick dressing, such as Telfa or a silicone-based dressing, and changing it daily or whenever it becomes wet or soiled, protects the wound from bacterial contamination and mechanical trauma.
- It is vital not to pick or forcibly remove the scab, as this can disrupt healing and lead to scarring.
- Monitoring for signs of infection, including increasing redness, warmth, swelling, pus, foul odor, or fever, is crucial, and medical attention should be sought if any of these symptoms occur. The use of saline irrigation, as mentioned in 2, can help remove debris and foreign material but should not be relied upon solely to reduce bacterial contamination completely.
- Maintaining a moist wound environment accelerates healing by allowing skin cells to migrate more easily across the wound bed.
- Complete healing typically takes 1-3 weeks, depending on the wound size and location.