Motor vehicle accidents often result in many types of injuries, both minor and severe. Among the severe injuries, degloving injuries are particularly serious and traumatic. These injuries occur when the skin and underlying tissue are forcibly removed from the body, typically in a way that resembles the process of removing a glove.
This type of injury exposes the underlying muscles, tendons and bones and can lead to extensive damage and complications. Types of degloving injuries include the following.
Closed degloving
Closed degloving injuries occur when the skin is separated from the underlying tissues but remains covered by the outer layer. These injuries can be subtle and are sometimes only noticeable through symptoms like bruising. They often create a space beneath the skin that can fill with fluid, blood or fat, known as Morel-Lavallée lesions. Common locations for these injuries include:
- The upper hip area (greater trochanter)
- The torso
- The buttocks
- The lower back
- The shoulder blades
- The knees
Closed degloving injuries may require advanced imaging techniques, such as MRI scans, to diagnose properly. Treatment depends on the injury’s severity and location, and these injuries are often associated with other serious conditions that need immediate medical attention.
Open degloving
These degloving injuries occur when the skin and underlying tissue are completely torn away, exposing muscles, bones or connective tissue. The skin may still be partially attached as a flap near the wound in some cases. Open degloving injuries from motor vehicle accidents are severe and typically affect areas such as:
- The legs
- The torso
- The scalp
- The face
These injuries require immediate emergency care to manage blood loss and prevent infection. Proper treatment is critical to addressing the extensive damage and preventing complications.
Legal guidance is crucial for victims of degloving injuries to determine their options for compensation.