Which type of wound involves both skin and deeper tissues?

A wound that involves both the skin and deeper tissues is classified as an open wound. Open wounds expose underlying tissues and can be more susceptible to infection because the protective barrier of the skin is compromised. This type of wound allows for more significant damage and a higher risk of complications compared to closed wounds, which do not breach the skin and typically only involve soft tissue injuries like bruising.

Open wounds can include various types, such as lacerations, abrasions, and punctures, each presenting its own characteristics. The direct exposure of deeper tissues means that these wounds often require careful assessment, cleaning, and management to prevent infection and promote healing. In contrast, a closed wound, like a contusion or bruise, does not break the skin and usually involves only superficial injury to tissues, making it distinctly different from an open wound in both mechanism and treatment.