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Types of Skin Injury

• Cuts, lacerations, gashes and tears are wounds that go through the skin to the fat tissue. Caused by a sharp object.
• Scrapes, abrasions, scratches and floor burns are surface wounds that don't go all the way through the skin. Scrapes are common on the knees, elbows and palms.
• Bruises are bleeding into the skin from damaged blood vessels. Caused by a blunt object or any injury, such as a sprain. They can occur without a cut or scrape.

When Sutures (Stitches) are Needed for Cuts

• Any cut that is split open or gaping needs sutures. Paper sutures or staples can sometimes be used.
• Cuts longer than ½ inch (12 mm) usually need sutures.
• On the face, cuts longer than ¼ inch (6 mm) usually need to be seen. They often need closure with sutures or skin glue to avoid scarring.
• Any open wound that may need sutures should be seen as soon as possible. Ideally, they should be checked and closed within 6 hours. Reason: to prevent wound infections. There is no cut-off, however, for treating open wounds.
• Do not delay getting the wound cleaned and treated.

Cuts Versus Scratches: Helping You Decide

• The skin is about ⅛ inch (3 mm) thick.
• A cut (laceration) goes through the skin.
• A scratch or scrape (wide scratch) doesn't go through the skin.
• Cuts that gape open at rest or with movement (such as cuts over a joint, like the knee) need stitches to help them start to heal and prevent scarring.
• Scrapes and scratches never need stitches, no matter how long they are. So this difference is important.