Treatment for Scalp Laceration

Initial Assessment and Preparation

• The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends evaluating the wound for size, depth, contamination, and location to determine the appropriate closure method, and cleaning the wound thoroughly with irrigation using tap water or saline solution (100-1000 mL) to reduce infection risk 3
• The American Academy of Pediatrics suggests applying adequate anesthesia before wound manipulation, including topical anesthetics (LET: lidocaine, epinephrine, tetracaine) for adults, and LET solution at appropriate dosing for children 1, 2
• For children, the American Academy of Pediatrics recommends considering topical anesthetics as first-line for pain control before any procedure 1

Closure Methods

Special Considerations

• The American Heart Association recommends covering superficial abrasions accompanying lacerations with clean occlusive dressing after cleaning 3

Post-Closure Care

• The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists recommends using acetaminophen, ibuprofen, and ice packs for pain management 4, 5
• The British Association of Dermatologists suggests monitoring for signs of infection (increased pain, redness, swelling, purulent discharge) 6
• The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists advises avoiding excessive tension on closure to prevent tissue necrosis and poor cosmetic outcome 5