Abrasions - Lacerations - Merck Manual Professional Version

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Abrasions
by Adam J. Singer, MD

brasions are skin scrapes that may involve epidermis or part or all of
the dermis.

Abrasions are evaluated, cleansed, and debrided similarly to lacerations. They are harder to
anesthetize, however, which is particularly problematic when large amounts of dirt, stones, or
glass are embedded as is frequently the case, particularly with deep, scraping wounds; a
regional nerve block or IV sedation may be needed.

Treatment of Abrasions
Cleansing
Antibiotics
After thoroughly removing all debris (vigorous scrubbing may be needed), antibiotic ointment
(eg, bacitracin, bacitracin/neomycin/polymyxin) and a nonadherent gauze dressing that is
impermeable to bacteria can be applied.
Other commercial wound dressings may be used; the goals are to keep the wound from drying
out, because drying interferes with re-epithelialization, and to keep the dressing from adhering.
Close observation and follow-up are necessary if defects are large, to check for purulent
discharge (indicating infection) or lack of wound healing.
Last full review/revision March 2015 by Adam J. Singer, MD
Lacerations
Lacerations
Abrasions
Lacerations
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16/06/2015 11:59 a.m.

Abrasions - Lacerations - Merck Manual Professional Version

2 de 2

http://www.merckmanuals.com/professional/injuries-poisoning/laceration...

Lacerations

* This is a professional Version *

Consumers: Tap here forthe
Consumer Version

2015 Merck Sharp & Dohme Corp., a subsidary of Merck & Co., Inc., Kenilworth, NJ., USA

16/06/2015 11:59 a.m.