A degloving injury, also known as an avulsion, is a severe and traumatic injury in which the top layers of skin and tissue are forcibly separated from the underlying muscle, connective tissue, or bone. This type of injury is often compared to removing a glove from a hand, hence the name. Degloving injuries can be life-threatening due to significant blood loss and the risk of infection, requiring immediate medical attention.
Often occurring on the job, industries with a higher risk of degloving injuries include construction, manufacturing, agriculture, mining, transportation, forestry and emergency services because these occupations involve heavy machinery, industrial equipment or hazardous environments.
Types of degloving injuries
There are two main types of degloving injuries:
- Open Degloving Injuries: These are more apparent and graphic, occurring when a section of skin and tissue is ripped away, exposing the muscles, tendons and sometimes bones underneath. This type of injury often results from traffic accidents, industrial mishaps or severe falls.
- Closed Degloving Injuries: These are less obvious. Although the skin remains intact, the underlying tissues are separated from the deeper layers. This type of injury, also known as Morel-Lavallée lesions, can be more challenging to diagnose and often results from blunt force trauma.
Treatment for this life-changing injury
Degloving injuries are life-changing due to their severity and the extensive recovery process. The immediate aftermath includes extreme pain, significant blood loss and the risk of shock. The exposed tissues are highly susceptible to infection, which can complicate recovery.
The treatment for degloving injuries typically involves multiple stages:
- Emergency Care: Immediate medical attention is crucial to control bleeding, prevent infection and stabilize the patient. This may involve cleaning the wound, administering antibiotics and providing pain relief.
- Surgical Intervention: Most degloving injuries require surgery. It can include skin grafts, where healthy skin is transplanted to cover the wound, or reattachment of the avulsed skin if possible. In severe cases, amputation might be necessary.
- Rehabilitation: Post-surgery, patients often need extensive physical therapy to regain function and mobility. It can be a long and challenging process, requiring patience and perseverance.
The success of the treatment depends on the severity of the injury, the promptness of medical intervention, and the patient’s overall health. While some patients recover fully, others may experience long-term complications such as reduced mobility, chronic pain, or psychological trauma.
Filing a workers’ compensation claim
Filing a workers’ compensation claim for a degloving injury is often vital since it covers extensive medical expenses, lost wages and rehabilitation costs. It also provides long-term financial support in cases of permanent disability and ensures legal protection. This financial and medical support allows you to focus on recovery without the added stress of financial worries and better ensures you receive the care you deserve. Many find it extremely helpful to work with a qualified and experienced attorney who can help the injured navigate the complexities of a worker’s comp claim.