Causes and risk factors
Lacerations are caused by trauma to the skin that causes wound to open. It affects the soft tissue of the skin. It is often contaminated with bacteria or debris. A laceration can be long, short, narrow, wide, shallow, or deep.
Clinical presentation
The severity of the symptom will depend upon the depth of the laceration. Symptoms of laceration are pain in the affected region. Burning pain in the affected area is experienced. There may be bleeding. There is tear in the skin and soft tissues. The skin, soft tissue, and muscle are cut open in laceration. The borders of the wound are irregular and jagged. There are different types of lacerations – split lacerations – caused when part of the body is crushed between 2 objects. The striking object makes an impact on the skin causing compression of the skin and tearing of underlying soft tissue. Over-stretching laceration is caused by a force that pulls the skin and stretches it causing break or tear in it, e.g., – bullet wound. Grinding compression type of laceration occurs when a striking object causes peeling of the upper layer of skin or epidermis. Cut laceration is the most common type which is caused by knife or scissors with a cut in the skin and underlying tissue. Tearing laceration, as the name implies, includes ripping apart of the skin and underlying soft tissue. The wound tears the skin into 2 parts.
Investigations
Medical history by the patient and clinical examination by the doctor helps in diagnosis.
Treatment
Using direct pressure helps to stop the bleeding. Once the bleeding is stopped, clean the wound thoroughly with mild soap and water. For minor lacerations, washing hands with soap or antibacterial cleanser is required to prevent infection. Application of antibacterial ointment and a clean bandage that will not stick to the wound is needed. Lacerations which are deep enough to affect tissue beneath the skin will require medical aid to stop bleeding and closing the wound with staples or sutures.
Complications
Complications such as infection in the wound, sepsis, permanent scar formation may occur. Tetanus may occur if the wound is contaminated by the bacteria and left untreated. Gaping of the wound can occur.
When to Contact a Doctor
One must consult a doctor if the wound is deep; bleeding doesn’t stop even after applying pressure.
Prevention
Objects like knife, scissors, and breakable items must be kept away from the reach of children.
Systems involved
Integumentary system, circulatory system
Organs involved
Skin, blood vessels
