Wound closure strips, often called steri-strips or butterfly bandages, are thin adhesive strips designed to hold the edges of a minor cut together. They help minimize scarring and are readily available in most pharmacies and first-aid retailers. These strips work by pulling the skin on either side of a laceration, effectively sealing the wound without requiring stitches or needles.
When to Use Wound Closure Strips
Wound closure strips are appropriate for small, clean, and superficial cuts that are not deep or bleeding heavily. They are most effective on wounds less than half an inch in length with smooth, straight edges. These strips can also provide support for wounds after sutures or staples have been removed, aiding in continued skin closure.
Applying Wound Closure Strips
Before touching any wound, thoroughly wash your hands with warm water and soap for at least 20 seconds to prevent infection. Next, clean the wound and the surrounding skin with mild soap and clean, running water. After cleaning, gently pat the wound and the surrounding skin completely dry with a clean cloth or towel; wound closure strips adhere best to dry skin.
Carefully remove a strip from its packaging, holding it by one end. Gently push the two sides of the wound together to align the edges. Place the first strip perpendicularly across the middle of the wound, securing one half to one side of the cut and then pulling the other half over to close the wound before sticking it down.
Apply additional strips, spacing them approximately 1/8 to 3 millimeters apart, until the wound is completely closed. Ensure the strips are applied without excessive overlapping. You may also apply additional strips parallel to the wound, about half an inch from the ends of the perpendicular strips, to prevent them from lifting prematurely.
Important Considerations
Do not use wound closure strips on deep, gaping, actively bleeding, infected, or dirty wounds. Seek professional medical attention if a cut continues to bleed after applying firm pressure for five minutes, or if it has jagged edges.
Seek medical attention for:
Persistent bleeding
Increased pain
Swelling
Warmth
Redness around the cut
Red streaks leading from the wound
Pus draining
A fever
Keep the wound closure strips and the wound area dry for at least 24 to 48 hours after application. Avoid strenuous activity that could pull the wound open. Regularly inspect the wound daily for any adverse reactions or complications, such as signs of infection or the strips becoming loose. If the ends of the strips begin to curl, you can carefully trim them with small scissors.
Removing Wound Closure Strips
Wound closure strips typically remain in place for about 5 to 10 days and may fall off on their own as the wound heals. If they are still on after this period, or if instructed by a healthcare professional, you can gently remove them. To facilitate removal, soften the adhesive by soaking the area in warm water.
Once the adhesive is softened, gently peel each strip slowly from each end towards the center of the wound. Avoid pulling the strip straight up or across the wound, to avoid disrupting healing or reopening the cut. After removal, gently wash the area with mild soap and water and pat it dry; do not rub or scrub the healing skin. Protect the newly healed skin from sun exposure to minimize scarring.