Type of Wounds

Injuries are far too common for most people. At some point in most of our lives, we will receive a wound. Whether major or minor, any injury that tears flesh is not only painful, but dangerous. The simplest puncture can breed tetanus, and a small cut can turn septic with infection. Knowing the basics of what types of wounds are more serious than others can help you treat them.

Lacerations

• A laceration is the most common type of wound. It is where tissue is cut or torn. The first step to treat this kind of wound is to stop bleeding, clean and scrub the injury of any loose materials and tissue, and then apply some sort of closing technique, whether through stitching or the application of a pressure dressing. The edges of the wound will try to be realigned to speed healing and lessen scarring.

Abrasions

• An abrasion is where the first layer of skin is scraped off, but the tissue underneath remains intact. An example of this is a first-degree burn. Cleansing of the wound and removal of any foreign material is important within the first 24 hours. Treatment is usually non-surgical and consists of the application of a moist dressing to protect the new tissue that forms to heal the abrasion.

Contusions

• Contusions are wounds underneath the skin. When a person sustains a harsh blow, it causes tissue damage and bleeding beneath the skin, but does not tear the skin itself. Most contusions do not require medical treatment, but should be monitored for symptoms of hematoma, which is deep tissue damage. A hematoma can cause skin death over the injury and will need medical treatment. Symptoms of a hematoma are a steadily growing mass beneath the contusion and discoloration, as well as severe pain. These symptoms require immediate medical treatment.

Avulsion

• An avulsion is a nasty tear in the tissue. It is where a section of the tissue has either been completely or mostly torn off the body. In the case of a partial avulsion, the tissue is examined for vascular supply. If it is viable, it will be cleaned and reattached. If it is not, it will be cut off and a graft or other closing option explored. In the case of a total avulsion, the part has been ripped completely off and will need to be examined carefully for its viability. If it is possible, it will be re-grafted onto the body; if not, it will not be salvaged. An example of this is an amputated finger. In some cases, it can be reattached, in some cases, this is not a possibility.

Warning

• As mentioned above, any wound can be serious, no matter how small, if ignored. In the case of punctures, a thorough cleansing and an update on your tetanus shot is a must. Deep cuts, where blood is pumping with each heartbeat, need an immediate call to 911. Burns that are charred or where underlying tissues are exposed also need immediate medical attention. In the case of any serious wound, err on the side of caution and seek professional medical treatment.