What is Laceration?

Lacerations are a pattern of injury in which skin and the underlying tissues are cut or torn. Unlike an abrasion, the skin isn’t missing. A cut is typically thought of as a wound caused by a sharp object, like a shard of glass. Usually, lacerations are caused by blunt trauma.

Signs and symptoms

A cut is typically one of the earliest and the easiest signs to diagnose the laceration, though it may be obscured by the blood at times. Symptoms that may accompany cuts and lacerations include bleeding, infection, swelling and minor redness in the skin around the injury. The surrounding structures beneath the skin may be damaged. Vasovagal syncope may result from the sight of the blood. Possibility of a scar is not ruled out.

Diagnosis

The clinical presentation of lacerations is variable depending on the location, depth, width, and length. Hence, the healthcare team must have a strong understanding of the past history and the physical examination of laceration. Following points must be noted-

• Ensure appropriate lighting, and easy availability of gauze and rinse materials
• Establish haemostasis by direct pressure
• Detailed examination for any damage to nerves or vessels
• Foreign bodies if observed should be removed, as they can increase the patients’ risk of infection or poor wound healing.

General management

The management must include general procedures to control bleeding followed by cleaning and dressing of the wound. Deeper cuts may require stitches to stop the bleeding and reduce scarring.

Complications of laceration

• Missed foreign bodies
• Missed tendon injuries
• Missed nerve injuries
• Infections
• Dehiscence of the wound

Warning: Above information provided is an overview of the disease, we strongly recommend a doctor’s consultation to prevent further advancement of disease and/or development of complications.

Disclaimer: The information provided herein on request, is not to be taken as a replacement for medical advice or diagnosis or treatment of any medical condition. DO NOT SELF MEDICATE. PLEASE CONSULT YOUR PHYSICIAN FOR PROPER DIAGNOSIS AND PRESCRIPTION.