Forearm/Wrist Lacerations
What are Forearm/Wrist Lacerations?
Forearm and wrist lacerations refer to deep cuts or tears in the skin that may extend to the underlying muscles, tendons, nerves, or blood vessels. These injuries can vary from superficial wounds to complex trauma affecting critical structures. Because the wrist and forearm contain dense networks of anatomical elements, even a seemingly minor laceration can result in significant functional impairment if not properly evaluated and treated.
Causes of Forearm/Wrist Lacerations
Lacerations to the forearm or wrist commonly result from trauma involving sharp or high-impact objects. Typical causes include:
- Glass injuries, such as falling through a window or handling broken glass
- Knife or blade injuries, whether accidental or intentional
- Industrial or machinery accidents, like saws or presses
- Falls or car accidents, resulting in cuts from debris or surfaces
- Sports injuries, particularly in contact or high-speed sports
- Self-inflicted injuries, often seen in mental health emergencies
The risk of damaging tendons, nerves, or arteries is high with deep or jagged wounds.
What are the Symptoms of Forearm/Wrist Lacerations?
Symptoms depend on the depth and location of the laceration. Common signs include:
- Visible open wound with bleeding
- Pain or tenderness, especially when moving the wrist or fingers
- Swelling and bruising around the injury site
- Weakness or inability to move fingers or wrist, if tendons are involved
- Numbness or tingling, suggesting nerve injury
- Pale or cool skin, possibly indicating vascular involvement
- Visible muscle, tendon, or bone, in deep lacerations
How are Forearm/Wrist Lacerations Diagnosed?
Evaluation includes both a physical examination and, when needed, imaging studies:
- Inspection of the wound, to determine depth and structures involved
- Neurological exam, to check sensation and motor function
- Vascular assessment, including pulse and capillary refill
- Tendon function tests, such as flexion and extension against resistance
- Ultrasound or MRI, for deeper injuries
- X-rays, if bone injury or foreign objects are suspected
A thorough assessment is essential before closing or repairing the wound.
What are the Treatment Options for Forearm/Wrist Lacerations?
Treatment depends on severity and involved structures:
- Wound cleaning and irrigation, to prevent infection
- Suturing, for clean skin closure
- Tendon, nerve, or vessel repair, if deep structures are involved
- Antibiotics and tetanus prophylaxis, for open or contaminated wounds
- Immobilization, to protect healing tissues
- Hand therapy, for restoring motion and strength
- Surgical exploration, in complex or uncertain cases