emDocs - October 19, 2020 - By Kaur G, Katirji L
Reviewed by: Sheng A; Koyfman A; Long B
"Pearls:
- Despite their benign initial appearance, puncture wounds should be taken seriously due to risk of infection and potential sequela such as osteomyelitis and deep soft tissue infections.
- Consideration of retained foreign bodies and thorough examination and imaging (ultrasound and/or plain films) are the keys to decreasing complications.
- Staphylococcus and Streptococcal species are the most common causes of infection. Pseudomonas is an important consideration in plantar puncture wounds and the most common cause of osteomyelitis.
- The majority of puncture wounds without retained foreign bodies will have a benign course. Prophylactic antibiotics, high-pressure irrigation, and debridement are unnecessary in most cases. Educate patients re: signs and symptoms to return for."