Description
A stab wound to the knee. These wounds can damage structures deep to the skin such as blood vessels, nerves, or tendons. The object that caused the wound can carry bacteria or foreign material deep into the wound and cause infections. Puncture wounds from animal or human bites are especially prone to infections.
Symptoms
Pain, bleeding, numbness, weakness, redness, increased warmth of the skin.
Tests
Common tests used for diagnosis and treatment
Workup:
A history and physical exam will be performed. An X-ray may be done to rule out a bony injury or to check for metal or glass in the wound, depending on the injury event.
Tests:
X-ray
Specialists:
Internal Medicine, Emergency Medicine, Pediatrics, Family Practice
Workup:
A history and physical exam will be performed. An X-ray may be done to rule out a bony injury or to check for metal or glass in the wound, depending on the injury event.
Tests:
X-ray
Specialists:
Internal Medicine, Emergency Medicine, Pediatrics, Family Practice
Treatment
Treatment depends on the structures injured. The wound will be cleaned. Antibiotics may be started, especially if the puncture is from a human or animal bite. If the wound enters the joint cavity surgery may be required to adequately clean out the joint and prevent a serious infection. A tetanus shot may be needed if the last shot was more than 5 years for a dirty wound or more than 10 years for a clean wound.