Traumatic partial-thickness skin injuries in clinical practice – a study of four cases

Introduction
Traumatic skin injuries, referred to as “skin tears”, are a commonly diagnosed health problem in elderly patients. They are a major concern for both healthcare personnel and carers of the elderly. The objective of the study was to present selected problems related to the treatment and healing of damage to the epidermis, based on 4 case studies.

Material and methods
A case series was performed. Of the 12 patients (mean age: 70.2 years) treated under specialist medical care within the years 2019-2021, 4 cases of skin damage were selected. These were patients aged 85-90 years, with skin damage in an area exceeding 50 cm2. All the wounds were classified as type 1 according to the ISTAP.

Results
Four type 1 wounds of a size exceeding 50 cm2 were managed with non-absorbable sutures. The treatment had a good effect of healing in 3 cases. In 1 patient with coexisting diabetes, epidermal necrolysis developed, and the wound eventually healed, forming granulation tissue over a period of 3 months.

Conclusions
Treating a skin tear with a suture is a quick and inexpensive procedure, which can be performed in outpatient settings. The application of an antiseptic dressing and maintaining proper humidity reduce the risk of infection and the time of healing.