A Closed Degloving Injury: Morel-Lavall ée Lesion

Morel-Lavall ée lesions (MLLs) occur when the skin and subcutaneous tissue abruptly separate from the underlying muscle fascia plane due to shearing force. This shearing force disrupts the perforating vessels and lymphatic ducts, resulting in a potential space filled with effusion containing lymph, blood, and n ecrotic fat. However, these effusions may be easily overlooked or misdiagnosed as simple soft tissue hematomas due to their rarity and lack of awareness among clinical practitioners. Prompt diagnosis of a closed degloving injury is crucial; otherwise, complications may include continued expansion, i nfection, tissue necrosis, and suboptimal outcome.
Source: Journal of Emergency Nursing: JEN - Category: Nursing Authors: Tags: Images Source Type: research