Is it safe to walk around with exposed bone until new skin regenerates?
No, it is not safe to walk around with exposed bone until new skin regenerates. Exposed bone is an open wound that is susceptible to infection and other complications.
Complications that can arise from exposed bone include:
- Infection: Exposed bone is vulnerable to infection from bacteria and other microorganisms. This infection can spread to the bloodstream and cause sepsis, a potentially life-threatening condition.
- Bleeding: Exposed bone can also bleed heavily. This bleeding can be difficult to stop and can lead to anemia.
- Damage to surrounding tissue: Exposed bone can also damage the surrounding tissue, including muscles, tendons, and nerves. This damage can cause pain, swelling, and difficulty moving the affected limb.
- Amputation: In some cases, exposed bone can lead to amputation of the affected limb. This is typically necessary if the infection cannot be controlled or if the damage to the surrounding tissue is too severe.
If you have exposed bone, it is essential that you seek medical attention immediately. The doctor will clean the wound, remove any dead tissue, and dress the wound to protect it from infection. The doctor may also prescribe antibiotics to help prevent infection.
It is important to keep the wound clean and dry while it heals. You should avoid walking on the wound or putting any weight on it. You should also avoid swimming or bathing until the wound has healed completely.
The healing process can take several weeks or even months. Once the wound has healed, you will need to follow your doctor's instructions for rehabilitation to help restore function to the affected limb.