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Alternative Names Return to top
Wound - cut or puncture; Open wound; LacerationDefinition Return to top
A cut or laceration is an injury that results in a break or opening in the skin. It may be near the surface or deep, smooth or jagged. It may injure deep tissues, such as tendons, muscles, ligaments, nerves, blood vessels, or bone.
A puncture is a wound made by a pointed object (like a nail, knife, or sharp tooth).
Symptoms Return to top
First Aid Return to top
If the wound is bleeding severely, call 911.
Minor cuts and puncture wounds can be treated at home. Take the following steps.
FOR MINOR CUTS
FOR MINOR PUNCTURES
DO NOT Return to top
When to Contact a Medical Professional Return to top
Call 911 if:
Call your doctor immediately if:
The following types of wounds are more likely to become infected: bites, punctures, crushing injuries, dirty wounds, wounds on the feet, and wounds that are not promptly treated.
If you receive a serious wound, your doctor may order laboratory tests, such as a blood test and skin culture to check for bacteria.
Prevention Return to top
References Return to top
Hollander JE, Singer AJ. Evaluation of wounds. In: Tintinalli JE, Kelen GD, Stapczynski JS, Ma OJ, Cline DM, eds. Emergency Medicine: A Comprehensive Study Guide. 6th ed. Columbus, OH:McGraw-Hill;2006:chap 40.
Update Date: 1/8/2009 Updated by: Jacob L. Heller, MD, Emergency Medicine, Virginia Mason Medical Center, Seattle, Washington, Clinic. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network. Also reviewed by David Zieve, MD, MHA, Medical Director, A.D.A.M., Inc.
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Page last updated: 04 May 2009 |