A member asked:

I have a wound that i think needed stitches, happened a week ago, i have been treating it myself, but the skin is still open, should i have it looked?

3 doctors weighed in across 2 answers

Yes: Failure for a wound to heal is likely due to an infection. If the wound was very large then it could take awhile to heal. That is the reason for stitches besides lowering risk of infection. So, have a doctor look at it.

Answered 12/23/2014

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Dr. Li-Yu Mitchell answered

Specializes in Family Medicine

You might: If no surrounding redness, purulent drainage, or warmth, you may be able to handle this on your own. If any of the above are present, you need to see a medical professional. If not, clean with soap and water and use otc triple abx ointment. Fyi- do not clean with alcohol or hydrogen peroxide, as those are ok to use when you first hurt yourself, but those products end up killing good new skin.

Answered 5/4/2014

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