When stitches begin to dissolve, many people notice an itching sensation around the wound. This experience is a common part of the body’s natural healing process as the tissues repair themselves. Dissolving stitches, also known as absorbable sutures, are specifically designed to break down safely within the body over time, eliminating the need for a follow-up removal procedure. The itching often signals that the healing process is actively underway, but understanding why it occurs and how to manage it can provide comfort during recovery.
Understanding Dissolving Stitches
Absorbable stitches are crafted from materials that the body can naturally break down and absorb. These materials can be either natural, such as catgut derived from animal intestines, or synthetic polymers. Common synthetic options include polyglycolic acid (PGA), polylactic acid (PLA), polyglactin 910 (often known as Vicryl), poliglecaprone (PGCL), and polydioxanone (PDS). These diverse materials are chosen based on the specific needs of the wound and the desired absorption timeline.
The body dissolves these stitches through distinct biological mechanisms depending on their composition. Synthetic absorbable sutures primarily break down via a process called hydrolysis, where water molecules gradually penetrate and cleave the polymer’s chemical bonds. In contrast, natural sutures like catgut are absorbed through enzymatic degradation, where the body’s enzymes target and fragment the suture material. The time it takes for these stitches to fully dissolve varies significantly, ranging from a few weeks to several months, depending on the material used; for instance, catgut may dissolve within 10 to 21 days, while polydioxanone can take 180 to 210 days.
Why Dissolving Stitches Can Itch
Itching around dissolving stitches is a normal biological response during active wound repair. During the initial stages of healing, the body launches an inflammatory response to clear debris and protect against pathogens. This process involves the release of various chemicals, including histamines, cytokines, and prostaglandins, which stimulate nerve fibers in the healing tissue and can trigger itching. Histamine, a well-known mediator of itching, plays a significant role in this sensation.
As the wound continues to heal, new nerve endings regenerate and become more sensitive, contributing to the itchy feeling. The ongoing cellular activity involved in tissue regeneration, including the formation of new skin cells and collagen synthesis, also contributes. Additionally, the suture material breaking down can irritate surrounding tissues, as the body recognizes it as a foreign substance and works to absorb it.
Dry, tight skin around a healing wound, especially with new tissue or scabs, can also exacerbate itching. While usually a sign of normal healing, itching can sometimes indicate an allergic reaction to the suture material or its coatings. These reactions may involve more intense itching, along with increased redness, swelling, or localized pain.
Soothing the Itch and Knowing When to Seek Help
Managing itching from dissolving stitches involves several approaches to promote comfort and healing. Avoid scratching, as it can disrupt healing, introduce bacteria, and increase infection risk. Apply cool compresses or ice packs (wrapped in a clean cloth) to numb the sensation and reduce discomfort. Keep the wound site clean and dry to prevent complications.
Wear loose clothing to prevent irritation. Moisturize the skin around the wound with a fragrance-free, hypoallergenic lotion or petroleum jelly to alleviate dryness and itching. For bothersome itching, consult a healthcare provider about over-the-counter options like oral antihistamines or mild topical corticosteroid creams.
While itching is expected, certain signs warrant prompt medical attention:
- Severe, persistent itching accompanied by increasing redness, warmth, or swelling around the stitch site.
- Pus or foul-smelling drainage from the wound.
- Fever.
- Development of a spreading rash, bumps, or blisters.
- Wound edges separating.
- Systemic symptoms like difficulty breathing or facial swelling.