Which term describes tissue torn away from the body, such as a fingertip flap?

Which term describes tissue torn away from the body, such as a fingertip flap?

• A. Fracture
• B. Contusion
• C. Avulsion
• D. Laceration

Answer: (C)

Avulsion describes tissue torn away from the body, as in a fingertip flap where part of the tissue is separated from its normal attachments. This is different from a fracture, which involves a break in bone; a contusion, which is a bruise without a cut; and a laceration, which is a cut in tissue that typically remains attached. Avulsed tissue often has compromised blood supply and needs prompt care to increase the chance of reattachment and to prevent infection. In the field, control bleeding, gently clean the area, and preserve the avulsed part by placing it in sterile saline‑moistened gauze inside a sealed plastic bag, then keep it cool and transport promptly to a medical facility.

Avulsion describes tissue torn away from the body, as in a fingertip flap where part of the tissue is separated from its normal attachments. This is different from a fracture, which involves a break in bone; a contusion, which is a bruise without a cut; and a laceration, which is a cut in tissue that typically remains attached. Avulsed tissue often has compromised blood supply and needs prompt care to increase the chance of reattachment and to prevent infection. In the field, control bleeding, gently clean the area, and preserve the avulsed part by placing it in sterile saline‑moistened gauze inside a sealed plastic bag, then keep it cool and transport promptly to a medical facility.