Classification of Wounds and their Management
2002; Elsevier BV; Volume: 20; Issue: 5 Linguagem: Inglês
10.1383/surg.20.5.114.14626
ISSN1878-1764
Autores Tópico(s)Diagnosis and Treatment of Venous Diseases
ResumoAbstract There is no standard classification for wounds. However, there are a number of different ways in which wounds can be classified which are of help in describing the wound with a view to its management and ultimate healing. The factors of greatest importance in evaluation are: the nature of the injury causing the wounds, the timing, whether acute or chronic, and the depth of injury to the skin and underlying tissues (Figure 1). These factors will all have a significant effect on the ability of the wound to heal with or without surgical intervention. The skin is the largest single organ in the body and forms a protective barrier to the external environment, keeping out harmful agents such as bacteria and viruses and maintaining the internal environment (i.e. body hydration and temperature control). Damage to the skin therefore causes a breach through which bacteria can enter to cause inflammation and infection locally (wound infection) or systemically (septicaemia). Of equal importance, tissue fluid will be lost through any break in the epidermis. Wounds greater than 10% body surface area can lead to a potentially life-threatening loss of extracellular fluid. Therefore, the prime aim with any wound is to achieve healing as quickly as possible in the simplest way, with the secondary aim of reducing resultant scar formation.
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