Signs of Leg laceration (skin cut)

Description

Cut on the leg. Lacerations of the leg 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

Laceration, inability to flex or extend the leg, weakness in the feet or toes, numbness in the feet or toes.

Tests

A history and physical exam will be performed. Testing of the nerve and tendon function and a X-ray to rule out a foreign body may be done.

Standard Workup

X-Ray

Treatment

Simple lacerations require only closure of the skin. More complex lacerations may require repair of tendons, nerves and/or arteries. Leg 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.