Trauma Specialist

What is a traumatic injury?

Traumatic injuries are those that occur unexpectedly and cause physical harm. Blunt force trauma is caused by an object or force striking the body, while penetrating trauma occurs when an object pierces the skin and creates an open wound. There are also burns, which result from exposure to heat, fire, or corrosive chemicals.

What are some specific types of traumatic injuries?

Traumatic injuries can include:

• Skin lacerations
• Puncture wounds
• Burns of varying degree
• Contusions (bruising) and abrasions
• Broken bones
• Significant strains, sprains, and tears of muscles, tendons, and ligaments
  
  

Cutting your thumb while slicing a tomato, breaking your ankle during a soccer game, and sustaining a crush injury when a heavy object falls on your foot are all examples of traumatic injury that may occur.

How are traumatic injuries treated?

Extensive trauma causing life-threatening injuries requires treatment at the emergency room. However, non-life-threatening injuries may be suitable for treatment at outpatient facilities.

In this case, traumatic injuries usually require several treatment steps that take place during one visit. The first step for skin lacerations or cuts, for instance, is controlling the bleeding. Your surgeon may examine and clean the wound before determining a course of treatment. Different routes for treatment include stitches, surgical glue to hold the wound edges in place, or butterfly bandages to prevent the wound from gaping.

Traumatic events often cause damage that involves several tissue structures, such as skin laceration and bleeding, broken bones, and nerve injury. Patients may require X-rays or other imaging studies to determine the extent of the injury or to rule out concussion or hidden injuries not obvious upon physical examination. Wounds and burns may require removal of dead tissue and foreign objects (debridement).

Aftercare for traumatic injuries is also vital and may include medication to reduce significant inflammation and pain, monitoring for signs of infection, and therapy to help heal damaged muscles and tendons. Depending on the injury, you may require reconstructive surgery in the future.

Chicago Surgical Clinic has a team of experienced, highly trained surgeons who are equipped to provide immediate medical care and skilled aftercare for many traumatic injuries. For expert care, schedule an appointment online or by phone today.