How long after getting an open wound cut do you have to get stitches?

6 to 12 hrs: The risk of developing infection in a wound that is sutured (stiched) begins to rise when the suture repair is delayed more than 6 hours and rises dramatically after 12 hours. Most emergency physicians will not attempt to close a wound after 24 hrs unless the wound is very large or there are cosmetic issues such as with facial wounds.

Depends where it is: In general, the sooner a wound is closed the better. However, areas like the face are more resistant to infection and can be repaired after some delay. It also depends on what caused the wound- a sharp cut repair may sometimes be delayed whereas a blunt wound or crush should be repaired as soon as possible. Repair of hands and legs shouldn't be delayed.

Depends: many issues: Including the location of the wound, whether it is clean or dirty. There used to be a "golden period" considered by many to be one hour when the wound could be closed safely without the risk of infection. That is not really true. Time is only one of the issues that determines the answer to your question. If you have a wound that might need professional care, go to an emergency room.

Depends: Most wounds of the head and neck can be closed within 24 hours, the truck and extremities 6 hours. But it also depends on if the wound is contaminated or not. If contaminated, less time is better.

Optimally ASAP : It depends on the wound, conditions, degree of contamination, tissue loss, exposed tissues, etc. It is best for a physician to make this determination. However clean body wounds are generally safe to close within 4-6 hours whereas clean facial wounds may be deferred for up to 24 hours. Dressing changes may extend this window. Some wounds are better left open to heal without stitches.

No firm rule: Obviously, the sooner the better! the dirtier the wound (human or animal bite, farm tool cut, cuts in lake water) may only be closable right away, if at all. Cuts on areas with poorer circulation (feet, legs) also should only be closed promptly (4-6 hours), although a stitch or two to roughly "tack" it together may be possible later. Clean facial and hand lacerations can wait longer.