How does a puncture wound heal

This is because dirt and germs are carried deep into the tissues. Sometimes, infection may be delayed, so it is very important to have your child see a healthcare provider for any puncture wound. Foot wounds that happen from punctures with objects found outside have a high risk of infection.

Wounds that penetrate through a shoe can be contaminated with sock and shoe particles. In some cases, a piece of the object that punctured you can break off and remain under your skin. Infections with bacteria that can cause long-term bone infections also happen often. Briggs JK. In: Triage Protocols for Aging Adults. Philadelphia, Pa. Rerucha CM, et al. Acute hand infections. American Family Physician. Goyal DG expert opinion. Mayo Clinic, Rochester, Minn. June 22, Pruthi S expert opinion.

Kermott CA, et al. Emergencies and urgent care. Rochester, Minn. Kelly AP, et al. Biology of wounds and wound care.

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Kasper, Dennis L.. Fauci, and Stephen L.. Harrison's Principles of Internal Medicine. New York: Mc Graw Hill education, National Library of Medicine. Cuts and Puncture Wounds.

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Treatment A puncture wound must be cleaned properly and monitored throughout the healing process to avoid complications. Infection is a common complication of puncture wounds that can lead to serious consequences. Sometimes a minor skin infection evolves into a bone or joint infection, so you should look for these signs: A minor skin infection may develop two to five days after injury.

The signs of a minor infection that show up around the wound include soreness, redness and possibly drainage, swelling and warmth. You may also develop a fever. If these signs have not improved, or if they reappear in 10 to 14 days, a serious infection in the joint or bone may have developed. Other complications that may arise from inadequate treatment of puncture wounds include painful scarring in the area of the wound or a hard cyst where the foreign body has remained in the wound.

Although the complications of puncture wounds can be quite serious, early and proper treatment can play a crucial role in preventing them. Get a tetanus shot if needed usually every 10 years. See a foot and ankle surgeon within 24 hours.