How To Remove Surgical Staples: 8 Steps
Surgical staples are used to close straight edge surgical incisions. The length of stay of the surgical stitches in the wound depends on the type of wound and the healing time, which is different for each patient. Staples are removed in a doctor’s office or hospital. This article summarizes information on how doctors remove surgical staples.
Staple removal with surgical staple remover
Clean the wound. Depending on how the wound is healing, use a saline solution, a disinfectant such as alcohol, or sterile swabs to remove excess skin or fluid from the wound.
Slide the surgical staple remover under the center of the staple. Start at one end of the healed wound.
This is a special tool for doctors to remove surgical staples.
Squeeze the handle of the staple remover until it closes. The top of the staple remover presses on the center of the staple, pulling the ends of the staple out of the wound.
Release the clamp by releasing the pressure on the handle. Place the removed staples in a disposable bowl or bag.
Remove the surgical staples in the same direction they were inserted to avoid tearing the skin.
You may feel a slight tingling, pinching, or twitching. It’s normal.
Use a staple remover to remove all other staples.
When you get to the end of the wound, check the wound again to see if you have lost a clamp. This will prevent further possible irritation and infection.
Treat the wound again with a disinfectant.
Cover or bandage the wound. The method of treatment depends on the degree of healing at the wound site.
Use a butterfly patch if your skin hasn’t healed enough. This supports the healing process and helps create a tighter scar.
Use fine gauze to avoid irritation. It serves to protect the affected area from clothing irritation.
If possible, leave the wound exposed to air. Do not cover the affected area with clothing to avoid irritation.
Watch for signs of infection. The redness around the wound should disappear within a few weeks. Treat the wound as directed by your doctor and look out for the following signs of infection:
Redness and irritation in the affected area.
The affected area is hot.
aggravation of pain.
Spout yellow or green.
Fever.
