Stab wound

A stab wound is an injury caused by sharp and/or cutting objects such as knives, pocket knives, daggers, and similar items.

Depending on the mechanism of injury, these wounds are classified as puncture wounds, incised wounds (with clearly defined edges), or mixed wounds. Another way to classify them is according to the depth of the injury: superficial, deep, or penetrating (when the wound passes completely through a body structure).

The most common cause is an assault by another person, although the injury may also be self-inflicted.

Symptoms depend on the location and depth of the wound, but in general all stab wounds cause bleeding and severe pain. Bleeding may be external and visible, but it can also be internal and less apparent. When the injury causes severe bleeding, signs and symptoms of shock may develop, including hypotension, tachycardia, cold sweats, dizziness, and others. In addition, if the wound is located in the chest, it may be accompanied by shortness of breath; if it is located in the abdomen, it may cause protrusion of internal organs.

Diagnosis is primarily clinical, based on the history of the injury and visualization of the wound. Blood tests should be performed to assess red blood cell levels, platelet count, and clotting factors. When internal bleeding (for example, abdominal bleeding) and/or visceral injury is suspected, imaging studies such as X-rays, ultrasound, and/or computed tomography (CT) scans are required.

Treatment includes hemodynamic stabilization and pain control. Bleeding should be stopped as quickly as possible through direct pressure, sutures, and, in some cases, hemostatic agents. If organ damage and/or internal bleeding are present, emergency surgery is required. In addition, blood transfusions and other blood products may be necessary to replace blood lost during the hemorrhage.

This is a life-threatening emergency, so medical attention should not be delayed. Before helping the injured person, it is essential to ensure that the attacker no longer poses a threat to either the patient or the person providing assistance. Otherwise, the police should be notified before assisting the injured individual.