Suturing Wounds in Horses

Your gelding came in with a ragged tear on his lower leg, and the veterinarian chose not to suture the wound. Your friend’s mare got a little slice on her rump,and the vet put in six stitches. How does a veterinarian choose whether or not to close a wound?

In general, small wounds are less likely to need stitches than larger injuries. Location is an important factor also, as sutures near a joint are more likely to pull out when the horse moves. Cuts on the lower legs are harder to stitch because there is little loose skin to pull together in this area. Large, deep wounds may close better after cleaning if they are sutured, but closing a puncture wound is inadvisable because contaminants may be trapped deep in the tissues.

If an injury involves a lot of bruising, tearing, and missing skin, suturing may be difficult or impossible. Owners are advised to seek a veterinarian’s advice in the treatment of any cut or laceration (an irregular or jagged skin wound).