Description Cut on the foot. La...
Description
Cut on the foot. Lacerations of the foot can be simple involving only the skin or complex with injury to tendons, nerves and/or blood vessels. With tendon lacerations there is weakness of the foot or toes, and with nerve damage numbness is experienced beyond the laceration.
Symptoms
Laceration, bleeding, inability to flex or extend the toes, numbness.
Tests
Common tests used for diagnosis and treatment
Workup:
A history and physical will be performed including testing of the function of the tendons and nerves. An X-ray may be performed to rule out a foreign body.
Tests:
X-ray
Specialists:
Orthopedic Surgery, Podiatry, Foot and Ankle Surgery
Workup:
A history and physical will be performed including testing of the function of the tendons and nerves. An X-ray may be performed to rule out a foreign body.
Tests:
X-ray
Specialists:
Orthopedic Surgery, Podiatry, Foot and Ankle Surgery
Treatment
Simple lacerations may only require a bandage although open wounds will need sutures (stitches). More complex lacerations may require repair of tendons, nerves and/or arteries. Foot lacerations should be repaired within 12 hours to prevent infection. While waiting for treatment the laceration can be cleaned with water and covered with gauze or a clean cloth. Pressure on the wound can be applied to stop bleeding. If the bleeding is profuse seek medical attention right away. A tetanus booster may be needed if the last one was more than 5 years ago.