Ankle laceration (cut in skin)

About Ankle laceration (cut in skin)

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 part of the extremity (ankle, foot or toe) normally moved by the tendon, and with nerve damage, numbness is experienced beyond the laceration.

Symptoms

Pain, bleeding, weakness, numbness.

Tests & Diagnostics

A physical examination of the laceration will be performed. An X-ray may be done to look for a foreign body such as dirt, wood or glass.

Common tests: X-ray.

Conventional treatment summary

Repair of the skin laceration with sutures. Underlying tendon, nerve or vessels are repaired if necessary. Ankle lacerations should be repaired within 12 hours to prevent infection. While waiting for treatment the laceration can be cleaned with running water and covered with gauze or a clean cloth. Pressure on the wound can be applied to stop bleeding. If the bleeding is profuse consider calling 911. For a dirty wound, a tetanus shot may be needed if there was none within the past 5 years; for a clean wound, no shot within the past 10 years.

Medical specialties

Orthopedic Surgery · Emergency Medicine · Urgent Care Medicine

This page is educational content, not medical advice. Always consult a qualified clinician for diagnosis and treatment of Ankle laceration (cut in skin).