What Are the Treatments for Closed Wounds?

A closed wound occurs when the tissue underneath the skin is injured by blunt force. Although closed wounds do not have tearing of skin, they are just as dangerous as open wounds. Left untreated, infections can set in causing further risk and complicating the healing process. There are four categories of closed wounds: contusions, hematomas, crush injury and chronic. Each category has individual treatments.

Contusions

• Contusions, or bruises, are caused by internal trauma to tissue without breaking the skin. Swelling and discoloration after a blunt force blow indicate a contusion. The discoloration will change over the course of healing. Redness will change to blue and then purple. The purple will turn to green, then yellow or brown, followed by the return of normal color. Treat by using the RICE mnemonic: R, rest the injured site; I, apply ice or a cold compress for 10 to 15 minutes every two hours to close blood vessels; C, compress or wrap firmly with a bandage to control swelling; and E, elevate above the heart to prevent pooling blood in the area.

Hematomas

• Hematomas, or blood tumors, are caused by leaking traumatized blood vessels. Leaking blood collects in surrounding tissue causing redness, swelling, inflammation and pain. Treat with the RICE mnemonic (rest, ice, compress and elevation). Treat accompanying pain with over-the-counter pain medication. Treatment of hematomas involving organs is adapted to the specific organ. Infection can complicate the healing process. Hematomas in the head may cause headaches, vomiting and trouble awakening, and you should consult a doctor in such cases.

Crush

• Crush injuries are caused by large amounts of force. Most crush injuries are the result of automobile accidents. Crush injuries include internal bleeding or broken bones and shock or unconsciousness. Check airways and breathing. Do not attempt to move the injured person.Treat the shock by keeping the person warm. Start a compression on the injury and call emergency services. Keep the person calm until help arrives. Medical treatments include administration of IV fluids, hyperbaric oxygen chamber regiment and amputation.

Chronic

• Chronic closed wounds, or ulcers, are caused by medical or physiological reasons for not healing. Examples of chronic wounds are bed sores, diabetic foot ulcers and ulcers resulting from vein problems in the leg. Sickle cell anemia also tends to create ulcers in the leg. Risk of infection makes these wounds dangerous. Treat by keeping the area clean and dry. Apply antibiotic cream or ointment. Medical treatment needed for these types of wounds to heal includes oral or subdural antibiotics, hyperbaric oxygen chamber and amputation.