Lacerations of the skin are immediately visible at the time of injury, unlike contusions (bruises) which may evolve and become visible over time. Lacerations may be more easily visualized by the use of toluidine blue dye, which normally only stains the nucleated cells beneath the surface that have been exposed by laceration, thereby highlighting the injury. Notably, superficial lacerations of the perianal region heal very quickly, typically being re-epithelialized within 48-72 hours of an injury.
Skin lacerations medical expert witness specialties include plastic surgery, pediatric plastic surgery, emergency medicine, and pediatric emergency medicine.