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Avulsion

Handling Avulsion Injuries in First Aid

Avulsion is a wound or injury in which skin, muscle, or other tissue is forcibly torn away from the body. It is a traumatic injury that can result from a traumatic event, such as a motor vehicle accident, a sports injury, or an animal attack.

Avulsion injuries can range from a minor tear or abrasion to a more severe injury in which large portions of the skin, muscle, or other tissues are completely torn away from the body. Avulsion injuries are classified according to the injury's severity and the affected structures.

Superficial avulsion injuries involve only the skin and may be caused by a tear or abrasion.

Partial avulsion involves deeper layers of tissue, such as muscle, and may be caused by blunt force trauma.

Complete avulsion involves separating the affected tissue from the body, such as the complete separation of a finger or toe.

Avulsion injuries can be excruciating and lead to significant blood loss and other complications.

Treatment of avulsion injuries typically involves cleaning and debriding the wound, controlling the bleeding with pressure, and suturing the wound closed. In severe cases, skin grafts or other reconstructive surgeries may be necessary to restore function and reduce the risk of infection. Avulsion injuries can also lead to long-term complications, such as scarring, nerve damage, and chronic pain. Proper wound care and follow-up care are vital in reducing the risk of these complications.

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References

  • Avulsion Injuries: Causes, Symptoms, Treatment, and Complications. (n.d.). Retrieved May 18, 2021, from https://www.healthline.com/health/avulsion-injury
  • Avulsion Injuries. (2021, February 08). Retrieved May 18, 2021, from https://www.orthoinfo.org/conditions-and-treatments/hand-and-wrist-injuries/avulsion-injuries