Arm Laceration (Skin Cut)

Description

Lacerations of the arm 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 (arm, wrist, hand, finger) normally moved by the tendon, and with nerve damage, numbness is experienced beyond the laceration.

Symptoms

Pain, bleeding, weakness, numbness.

Tests

A history and physical exam will be performed. An X-ray may be done to look for a foreign body such as dirt, wood or glass.

Treatment

Repair of the skin laceration with sutures. Underlying tendon, nerve or vessels are repaired if necessary. Arm 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. A tetanus shot may be needed if the last shot was more than 5 years for a dirty wound or more than 10 years for a clean wound.

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