Dissolvable stitches are used beneath the skin or in internal tissues to hold a wound closed. Unlike traditional sutures, these are made from materials like synthetic polymers or purified animal proteins that the body’s natural processes break down over time, eliminating the need for a follow-up removal procedure. It is common for patients to see a short segment of these sutures emerge from the skin before they have completely dissolved. This occurrence is generally a normal part of the healing process.
Why Dissolvable Stitches May Protrude
The protrusion of a dissolvable stitch, often called “suture spitting,” occurs when the body treats the suture material as a foreign substance and attempts to expel it. The body naturally absorbs these materials through hydrolysis, but sometimes the material is pushed outward instead of being fully metabolized. This process is the body’s immune response working to rid itself of an object it does not recognize.
Another factor relates to surgical technique and healing dynamics. If a knot is tied too close to the skin or the suture is placed too superficially, the ends may become exposed as the surrounding tissue swells or contracts during recovery. As the suture material degrades, it can soften and the ends may work their way through the incision line. This outward migration is a physical manifestation of the material dissolving and the wound edges settling.
Safe Handling and What Not to Do
When you notice a dissolvable stitch end sticking out, the safest action is to keep the area clean and let the natural process continue. Gently cleaning the wound area with mild soap and water, as directed by your healthcare provider, helps prevent bacteria from migrating along the exposed thread. After cleaning, the area should be gently patted dry, as a clean and dry environment supports proper wound closure.
Avoid manipulating the exposed stitch, as pulling on it can prematurely disrupt the deeper sutures providing structural support. Tugging at the stitch can also introduce bacteria deep into the wound, raising the risk of infection. Never attempt to cut the stitch yourself unless a healthcare professional has explicitly instructed you to do so using sterile tools. If the exposed thread causes discomfort, contact your provider, who can safely trim the material using sterile instruments to prevent irritation.
Signs That Require Calling a Healthcare Provider
While a protruding stitch is often benign, monitor the wound for signs of complication. Look for increasing or spreading redness that radiates outward from the incision line, which is distinct from the mild, localized redness common during early healing. The presence of pus—a thick, cloudy, or discolored discharge, especially if accompanied by a foul odor—suggests a bacterial infection.
Other serious indications include a fever over 100.4°F (38°C), a sudden increase in pain or tenderness not relieved by medication, or the skin around the wound feeling unusually warm. Also check for signs of wound dehiscence, which is when the incision edges begin to separate or gape open. Contact your healthcare provider immediately if any of these symptoms occur.