Quick Links
Service Areas
Our mobile care team proudly serves patients throughout Fort Lauderdale and the surrounding areas.
Read MoreLacerations are cuts or tears in the skin caused by accidents, trauma, or the impact of sharp objects. They can range from minor superficial wounds to complex traumatic lacerations involving deep puncture wounds or scalp lacerations. Proper skin laceration repair is crucial for promoting wound healing, reducing the risk of infection, and minimizing scarring, especially for facial lacerations or wounds located in areas of increased tension.
What Are Lacerations?
Lacerations occur when the skin and underlying tissues are cut or torn, often resulting in bleeding, pain, and swelling (wound edema). These wounds can vary widely in terms of wound length, depth, and location, ranging from superficial wounds to deep wounds contaminated with foreign bodies or necrotic tissue. Lacerations may also be complicated due to bite wounds or wounds contaminated by dirt or debris, which increase the risk of wound infection.
How Are Lacerations Repaired?
The repair process begins with a comprehensive wound preparation, which includes cleansing and wound irrigation prior to closure. This is typically done using sterile saline or normal saline to remove debris and reduce bacterial contamination. Wound irrigation and wound cleansing help lower the risk of infection, especially in contaminated wounds. Local anesthesia or topical anesthetics are used to ensure comfort during the procedure.
Depending on the wound’s characteristics, providers at InMotion Health may use a variety of techniques for laceration closure. Low tension wounds with clean wound edges can often be closed using tissue adhesive glue or wound adhesive strips; high tension wounds or deep, gaping wounds may require a more targeted technique for proper wound healing using sutures or staples. For wounds that require sutures, the choice of suture material is crucial. Absorbable sutures and nonabsorbable sutures are selected based on wound location and depth.
Symptoms of Lacerations
Common symptoms include:
- Visible cuts or tears in the skin
- Bleeding
- Pain
- Swelling
- Numbness if nerves are involved
Severe lacerations can expose blood vessels, muscle, or bone, and may show signs of wound infection if left untreated.
What Causes Lacerations?
Lacerations may result from accidents involving:
- Sharp objects
- Falls
- Animal bites
- Trauma, such as car accidents or sports injuries
Deep puncture wounds and traumatic lacerations have a higher risk of complications due to contamination and tissue damage.
Why Is Laceration Repair Important?
Timely and proper laceration repair reduces the risk of wound infection compared to untreated wounds. It also prevents wound complications, such as wound dehiscence, necrotic tissue development, and excessive scarring. Proper wound irrigation, wound margin alignment, and suturing are essential for achieving optimal wound healing without wound tension.
How Can I Promote Healing For Repaired Lacerations?
Keep the area clean by performing gentle wound cleansing with sterile saline or sterile normal saline, and apply a thin layer of topical antibiotic ointment to reduce the risk of infection. Avoid picking at wound edges or disturbing absorbable and nonabsorbable sutures, tissue adhesive glue, or wound adhesive strips until suture removal or natural healing occurs. Monitor for signs of wound infection and seek medical attention promptly if they appear.
Who to Trust with Treatment
At InMotion Health, we provide expert laceration repair, accompanied by meticulous wound evaluation and adherence to sterile techniques. Whether you need simple skin adhesive with glue or strips or more advanced closure with sutures or staples, InMotion Health is here to help! Contact us for same-day care, including follow-up instructions for wound care, wound monitoring, and suture or staple removal.
When in Doubt
If you or someone else is experiencing severe or life-threatening symptoms and you’re unsure whether it’s an emergency, call 911 or go to the nearest Emergency Room. It’s always safer to seek immediate care rather than delay treatment.
Disclaimer: The information on this page is intended to support your care by providing general education and information, but it should not replace guidance from a licensed medical professional. We recommend consulting with one of our trained clinicians—either virtually or through our in-home services—for an accurate evaluation and appropriate treatment.
Meet Your In-Home Expert
Carly Oliveri, PA-C
Lead Provider & Founder
Carly Oliveri is a board-certified Physician Assistant with extensive experience in emergency medicine and urgent care. She earned her undergraduate degree in Health Science from the University of Florida and completed her Master’s in Physician Assistant Studies at the Pace University Lenox Hill Hospital Physician Assistant Program in Manhattan, New York.
Absolutely amazing service! InMotion Health made getting care so easy and convenient. The provider was professional, compassionate, and thorough. Highly recommend for anyone looking for top-notch care at home or virtually!
- Easy and Convenient
I was visiting from out of town and needed urgent care — InMotion Health was amazing! The provider came right to my hotel, handled everything on the spot, and made the process so easy. Professional, friendly, and convenient. Highly recommend for travelers!
- Professional, friendly, and convenient
Have a question?
Request an Appointment
We’ll bring care to your door!
Scheduling a consultation with InMotion Health is fast, easy, and designed around your convenience. Our team is ready to care for you from the comfort of your own home. To get started, fill out our online form or call us at (954) 228-3019 to speak with our team directly. We’re here to make healthcare more accessible; schedule your visit or ask questions about our services.
Schedule Now