Wounds Caused by Pointed and Sharp-Edged Weapons

Wounds caused by pointed and sharp-edged weapons can be divided into four categories:

1. Stab wounds 2. Incised wounds (cuts) 3. Chop wounds 4. Therapeutic/diagnostic wounds

Stab wounds are produced by pointed instruments. Most are homicidal. In stab wounds, the depth of the wound track in the body exceeds its length in the skin. The edges of the wound in the skin are typically sharp, without abrasion or contusion (Figure 7.1). In describing stab wounds, one should never use the term laceration. A laceration is a tear in the skin caused by blunt force.