Hematoma of the lower extremity: operative interventions in the wound clinic setting

Hematoma in the soft tissue, a swelling in the tissue caused by bleeding, is not an uncommon occurrence following trauma or operative procedures. Hematomas of the extremities can be seen in as many as 33 per 10 000 individuals annually. Most hematomas are considered minor problems following the initial injury; however, accumulation of blood in the tissues can result in necrosis of the overlying skin due to increased tissue pressure. Even in the absence of increased tissue pressure, multiple cellular and biochemical changes that can result in tissue ischemia and necrosis have been identified. To avoid these significant complications, prompt recognition and operative evacuation of these hematomas should be performed. The author presents 2 cases of hematomas that were evacuated using local anesthesia in the wound clinic setting.