Laceration (skin cut)
About Laceration (skin cut)
Cuts to the skin. Lacerations can be simple involving only the skin, or complex with injury to tendons, nerves and/or blood vessels. With tendon lacerations there is weakness in the movement of the affected limb or appendage, and with nerve damage numbness is experienced distal to the laceration.Symptoms
Laceration, bleeding, weakness, numbness.Tests & Diagnostics
A history and physical exam will be performed with special attention to nerve and tendon function. An X-ray may be done to rule out a foreign body.Common tests: X-ray.
Conventional treatment summary
Simple lacerations may require only a bandage or, sutures may be necessary. More complex lacerations may require repair of tendons, nerves and/or arteries. A tetanus vaccination may be recommended.Medical specialties
Emergency Medicine · Urgent Care Medicine
This page is educational content, not medical advice. Always consult a qualified clinician for diagnosis and treatment of Laceration (skin cut).