Avulsion injury


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Avulsion injury


An avulsion injury is a cut or scrape that removes all the layers of the skin, exposing the fat or muscle. A common avulsion injury is scraping off all the skin on the tip of a finger or toe.

Avulsion injuries heal by first forming new skin on the edges of the wound and then healing from the edges into the middle. The larger the wound, the longer it takes to heal and the greater the risk of infection. If the piece of tissue that has been cut or scraped off is recovered and the person receives medical attention quickly, it can sometimes be sewn back on.

Credits


Author Jeannette Curtis
Author Caroline Rea, RN, BS, MS
Editor Kathleen M. Ariss, MS
Editor Susan Van Houten, RN, BSN, MBA
Associate Editor Tracy Landauer
Associate Editor Pat Truman
Primary Medical Reviewer Patrice Burgess, MD

- Family Medicine
Primary Medical Reviewer Adam Husney, MD

- Family Medicine
Primary Medical Reviewer Kathleen Romito, MD

- Family Medicine
Last Updated May 25, 2007

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Last updated: May 25, 2007
Author: Caroline Rea, RN, BS, MS
Reviewed By: Kathleen Romito, MD - Family Medicine
Editors: Susan Van Houten, RN, BSN, MBA, Pat Truman

This information is not intended to replace the advice of a doctor. By using AOL Body, you indicate that you have read, understood, and agreed to our Terms of Service, and AOL Body Advertising Policy. Read more about our content partners.

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