-IBIS-1.5.0-
tx
cutaneous system
laceration
diagnoses
definition and etiology
definition:
an irregular split or tear in tissues that results from incision or from stretching beyond their tensile strength
etiology:
commonly derived from the history
signs and symptoms
signs and symptoms:
obvious signs of bleeding and tissue damage
pain
course and prognosis
A wound will heal by "first intention" if the tissues are approximated and held together with sutures or tape and kept free of infection. A wound may heal by "second intention" if there is a large tissue defect that must be filled, such as in an ulceration. Granulation tissue fills the gap from the edge of the wound toward the center. Wounds which heal through second intention tend to have a greater degree of inflammation, more scar tissue, and a greater degree of contraction as the wound continues to heal. Keloid formation (especially in blacks) may be a secondary effect of wound healing; there is an excess of collagen in the scar tissue, which may be raised above the level of the surrounding dermis.
it is important to ensure that lacerations have been well cleaned before closing or suturing, as dirty wounds may lead to local or systemic complications
differential diagnosis
abrasion
incision
puncture
avulsion
footnotes