Foreign body in a wound
About Foreign body in a wound
A foreign material in a cut. The most common foreign bodies are gravel, small rocks, sand, glass, and wood. If the foreign body is not removed an infection of the wound can occur. The best way to prevent a foreign body in a wound is to clean the area with running water. The healthcare provider will examine the wound and try to visualize any material after the wound has been cleaned. Sometimes an x-ray or CT scan is helpful in detecting a foreign body lying underneath the surface of the skin.Symptoms
A wound or cut that does not heal. Persistent wound infection, cloudy discharge from a wound, chronic pain, sensation that something is in the wound.Tests & Diagnostics
A history and physical exam will be done. The foreign body can sometimes be seen in the wound. Depending on what the foreign body is made of an x-ray or CT scan may be helpful.Common tests: CT Scan, X-ray.
Conventional treatment summary
If there is no associated infection and the foreign body is not causing symptoms it may be left in the wound. Foreign bodies associated with an infection or pain will be surgically removed.Medical specialties
Orthopedic Surgery · Hand Surgery
This page is educational content, not medical advice. Always consult a qualified clinician for diagnosis and treatment of Foreign body in a wound.