How long should one treat a bruise?
The duration of the treatment of a bruise depends strongly on the size and extent of the bruise. Smaller bruises often heal within a few weeks (1-2 weeks). Larger bruises, for example those caused by more severe impact injuries to the legs, when taking anticoagulants or after operations, sometimes take more than 4 weeks to heal completely.
When is surgery necessary?
The operation of a bruise is necessary if there is a risk that it will lead to the death (necrosis) of the affected body region. This refers to the compartment syndrome, for example. A compartment is a muscle lobe delimited by connective tissue.
The most common site of bruising where such a problem occurs is the lower leg. In the event of trauma, bleeding into this musculature can occur. The haematoma causes an increase in pressure in the musculature and tissue is damaged.
It is also more problematic that arteries are also squeezed off and structures further away from the foot are no longer supplied and may die. In addition to severe pain, the compartment becomes noticeable by a rock-hard leg. In this case, a fascial cleft must be performed as quickly as possible.
This involves cutting open the musculature so that the blood can escape and the pressure can drop. A compartment through a bruise can also occur in other parts of the body, such as the arm. Other indications for surgery for a bruise are if it is too close to joints or if nerve structures are pressed through it (e.g. at the spine or in the head area).
Otherwise, surgery may be necessary if the bruise is very large, as they sometimes become encapsulated. In this case, it is possible to remove the bruise. If the bruise simply remains too long and does not get better, a doctor should rule out that the bruise has become infected, that there is a connection to a larger vessel or that there are further injuries to bones.This could also be interesting for you: bruise under the nail, bruise on the child
