Liquid stitch, also known as skin adhesive or surgical glue, offers a method for closing certain minor cuts and wounds. This topical application forms a protective layer, holding wound edges together to facilitate healing and provide a barrier against external elements.
Understanding Liquid Stitch
Liquid stitch is primarily composed of cyanoacrylate compounds, which are liquid monomers. Upon contact with moisture, these monomers undergo a rapid chemical reaction called polymerization. This process transforms the liquid into a strong, flexible film that bonds the skin edges together. The resulting film acts as a protective, waterproof barrier, helping to prevent bacteria and debris from entering the wound. This adhesive layer naturally degrades and sloughs off as the skin heals, typically within 5 to 10 days.
Appropriate Use and Application
Liquid stitch is suitable for small, clean, and superficial cuts that are not gaping. Ideal wounds are generally less than 2.5 centimeters (approximately 1 inch) in length and have edges that can be easily brought together without tension. These adhesives are often used on flat areas of the body, like the trunk or forehead, where there is less movement.
Before applying liquid stitch, thoroughly clean the injured area with soap and cold water, then ensure it is completely dry. Moisture on the skin or inside the wound can affect the adhesive’s bonding. Gently bring the edges of the cut together to ensure they are well-aligned. Apply the liquid stitch in a thin layer directly over the top of the approximated wound, spreading it from one end to the other. Do not place the adhesive inside the cut itself, only on the surface of the skin. Hold the wound edges together for about one minute to allow the adhesive to dry and set.
Crucial Considerations and Post-Application Care
Liquid stitch is not suitable for all types of wounds. It should not be used on deep cuts, actively bleeding wounds, or those with jagged edges that cannot be easily approximated. Wounds that are dirty, infected, or involve animal bites or punctures are also not appropriate for liquid stitch, as sealing in bacteria can increase the risk of infection. Areas of high skin tension, such as joints (like elbows or knees), or moist areas like mucosal surfaces (e.g., mouth, nose, eyes, groin, armpits) are generally not recommended for liquid stitch application. Individuals with known allergies to cyanoacrylate or formaldehyde should avoid these products.
After application, proper care helps ensure effective healing. The treated area should be kept dry for the initial 24 to 48 hours; after this period, showering is generally permissible, but direct water flow should be avoided, and the area should be gently patted dry. Soaking the wound, such as in baths, swimming, or washing dishes, should be avoided as it can soften the adhesive and cause it to come off prematurely. Do not scratch or pick at the adhesive, as it is designed to fall off naturally as the wound heals; applying ointments, creams, or antibiotic gels over the liquid stitch can weaken the bond. Watch for signs of infection, such as increasing redness, pain, swelling, warmth, or pus around the wound, and seek medical attention if these symptoms develop.
Liquid Stitch Compared to Traditional Sutures
Liquid stitch offers several advantages over traditional sutures. Its application is often faster and less painful, as it does not involve needles or require local anesthesia, which can be particularly beneficial for children. Unlike sutures, liquid stitch does not require a follow-up visit for removal, as it naturally peels away. It can also result in less scarring compared to stitches because it eliminates the needle marks associated with suturing. The adhesive forms a waterproof seal, which can help lower the risk of infection by preventing external contaminants from entering the wound.
Despite its benefits, liquid stitch has limitations compared to traditional sutures. It is not suitable for deep, wide, or high-tension wounds, as it may not provide sufficient strength to hold the edges together. In such cases, sutures offer greater tensile strength and are better able to withstand movement and stress. There is a slightly higher risk of the wound reopening (dehiscence) with liquid stitch compared to sutures, though the cosmetic outcome for suitable wounds is often comparable. While liquid stitch creates a microbial barrier, it cannot be used for wounds that are already infected or dirty.