Wound

From WikiMD's Food, Medicine & Wellness Encyclopedia

Wound is a type of injury which happens relatively quickly in which skin is torn, cut, or punctured (an open wound), or where blunt force trauma causes a contusion (a closed wound). In pathology, it specifically refers to a sharp injury which damages the dermis of the skin.

Types of Wounds[edit | edit source]

Wounds can be classified into several types, including:

  • Abrasion: An abrasion occurs when skin rubs against a hard surface, causing the upper layers of the skin to wear away.
  • Laceration: A laceration is a deep cut or tearing of the skin. Accidents with knives, tools, and machinery are frequent causes of lacerations.
  • Puncture: A puncture is a small hole caused by a long, pointy object, such as a nail or needle.
  • Avulsion: An avulsion is a partial or complete tearing away of skin and the tissue beneath. Avulsions usually occur during violent accidents such as car crashes and explosions.
  • Incision: An incision is a clean cut caused by a sharp edge, such as a knife. Incisions can also be made intentionally during surgery.

Treatment[edit | edit source]

Treatment for wounds can involve a number of interventions, including first aid, wound dressing, surgery, and medication. The type of treatment depends on the severity and type of wound.

Complications[edit | edit source]

If not properly treated, wounds can lead to complications such as infection, sepsis, and scarring. In severe cases, untreated wounds can lead to amputation or death.

See Also[edit | edit source]

Wound Resources
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Contributors: Prab R. Tumpati, MD