What does it mean if there's a black substance inside a broken hand wound, and what should I do?
Under normal circumstances, the presence of black material inside a broken skin area on the hand may be caused by external dirt, scabs, fungal infection, tissue necrosis, or residual foreign bodies. If discomfort occurs, it is recommended to seek medical attention promptly. Detailed explanations are as follows:
1. External Dirt
After an injury to the hand, the wound may come into contact with external dirt or impurities. These substances can adhere within the wound, forming black material. It is recommended to clean the wound promptly with clean water and soap, and disinfect it with alcohol or iodophor to prevent infection.
2. Scab Formation
When the hand is injured and bleeding occurs, platelets rapidly aggregate at the wound site to form a scab, which seals the wound and promotes healing. The scab may appear dark red or black, resembling black material. It is advised to keep the wound clean and dry, avoiding contact with water.
3. Fungal Infection
During the healing process of a hand wound, poor hygiene conditions may lead to fungal infection. Some fungal infections can cause black material to appear at the wound site, possibly accompanied by symptoms such as peeling skin and red patches. It is recommended to treat under a doctor's supervision using medications such as flucytosine tablets, nystatin tablets, or fluconazole capsules.
4. Tissue Necrosis
After a hand injury, tissues around the wound may become necrotic due to ischemia or severe damage. Necrotic tissue typically appears black, giving the appearance of black material. It is recommended that a doctor promptly removes the necrotic tissue and prescribes antibiotics such as moxifloxacin hydrochloride tablets, amikacin sulfate injection, or cefixime tablets to prevent infection.
5. Residual Foreign Body
If a foreign object remains in the wound after hand injury and is not promptly removed, granulation tissue may form around the object, leading to poor wound healing. Black material may develop around the foreign body, often accompanied by symptoms such as swelling, redness, and pain. It is recommended that a doctor surgically remove the foreign object and prescribe antibiotics such as amoxicillin capsules, clarithromycin capsules, or metronidazole tablets to prevent infection.
In daily life, maintaining proper personal hygiene, bathing regularly, and changing clothes frequently can help prevent disease.