What Is Considered an Open Wound?

An open wound is an external cut that differs from a closed wound, like a bruise, where the skin is unbroken. There are five general types of open wounds. Open and closed wounds are both health risks if left unattended.

Avulsions

• The tearing of tissues from a bullet wound, animal bite or explosion is considered an avulsion. These wounds are often deep with quick and heavy blood loss.

Lacerations

• This term covers cuts that tear the soft tissue under the skin. Lacerations are usually caused by irregular, jagged or blunt trauma, and bleed heavily and rapidly.

Punctures

• When the skin is pierced by such things as a tack, nail or other sharp object it is considered a puncture. Punctures do not always bleed externally, but can sometimes cause internal bleeding or give a person tetanus.

Abrasion

• Limited bleeding caused by scraping or rubbing against a jagged surface is an abrasion. This wound should be cleaned and covered to avoid infection.

Incisions

• When the skin is pierced by such items as a knife or razor it is considered an incision. This wound can bleed a lot and quickly, and deep ones may damage tendons and muscles.