Signs of Puncture wound, knee

Puncture Wound, Knee

Description

A superficial stab wound to the knee. These wounds can damage structures deep to the skin such as blood vessels, nerves, or tendons. The object that caused the wound can carry bacteria or foreign material deep into the wound and cause infections. Puncture wounds from animal or human bites are especially prone to infections.

Symptoms

Pain, bleeding, numbness, weakness, redness, increased warmth of the skin.

Tests

A history and physical exam will be performed. An X-ray may be done to rule out a bony injury.

Standard Workup

X-Ray

Treatment

Treatment depends on the structures injured. The wound will be cleaned. Antibiotics may be started, especially if the puncture is from a human or animal bite. If the wound enters the joint cavity surgery may be required to adequately clean out the joint and prevent a serious infection. 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.