Surgical staples are a common method used by surgeons to close large incisions or wounds under high tension. They are applied quickly using a surgical stapler, which helps to approximate the skin edges securely. Unlike many sutures, surgical staples do not dissolve and must be removed by a healthcare professional once the wound has adequately healed. This process requires a specific tool designed to remove the staples with minimal disturbance to the newly formed tissue.
When Staples Are Ready for Removal
The timing for staple removal is variable, depending on the wound’s location, the patient’s overall health, and the degree of tension across the incision. Generally, staples remain in place anywhere from 5 to 21 days. Areas with rich blood supply and less movement, such as the face and neck, often heal faster, allowing for removal in about 3 to 7 days.
Incisions on the abdomen, back, or lower extremities are subject to more movement or higher tension, requiring staples to stay in for 10 to 14 days or longer. Healthcare providers assess readiness by confirming the incision edges are fully approximated and the tissue appears sealed. Signs of proper healing include the absence of drainage, significant swelling, or localized infection. Removing staples too early risks dehiscence, where the wound edges separate, while leaving them in too long increases the likelihood of scarring.
The Step-by-Step Removal Procedure
The removal process uses a specialized staple remover tool, which resembles small pliers, designed to safely manipulate the metal without pulling the skin. This instrument consists of a flat, lower jaw and an upper, moving blade. The procedure begins with the healthcare provider thoroughly cleaning the incision site with a sterile solution, such as saline or an antiseptic, to remove any debris.
The provider then slides the flat, lower jaw of the staple remover directly underneath the middle of the staple. The tool’s design ensures the staple is not pulled straight up, which could tear the healing tissue. Once positioned, the provider firmly squeezes the handles of the remover. This action causes the upper blade to push down on the center of the staple’s crossbar, deforming the metal into an “M” shape.
The bending motion gently lifts the staple’s two prongs out of the skin simultaneously. The staple is then lifted away and placed on gauze to be counted. This process is repeated for each staple along the incision line, often starting with every second staple to confirm wound integrity before removing the remainder.
What to Expect During and After Removal
The mechanical removal of surgical staples is generally not painful because the staples only pierce the outermost layer of the skin and do not anchor into deep tissue. Patients commonly describe the sensation as a minor tugging, pinching, or tickling feeling as each staple is lifted out. If any stapled area appears not fully healed or if wound separation occurs during removal, the provider will stop and apply adhesive support strips.
Immediately following the procedure, the incision site is cleaned again. Adhesive strips, often called Steri-Strips, are typically applied across the new scar tissue. These strips provide essential support to the wound edges for several days, minimizing tension and promoting a better cosmetic outcome. Patients are instructed to keep the area clean and dry, avoiding soaking the wound, though gentle washing is often permitted soon after.
Patients must monitor the site for signs that could indicate a complication after the staples are out. Persistent bleeding, rapidly increasing swelling, or a gaping wound require immediate medical attention. Signs of infection, such as increasing redness, warmth, or thick discharge, should also prompt a call to the healthcare provider.