Splinter Removal
What are splinters and why should they be removed?
Splinters are small, foreign objects that become embedded in the skin, typically originating from materials such as wood, metal, or glass. While splinter injuries are frequently encountered, their removal may not always be straightforward. Large, deeply embedded splinters can pose challenges, potentially fracturing beneath or within the skin. Attempting removal without proper tools can risk further injury or infection.
Types of splinters
What kinds of materials can cause splinters? While wood is commonly associated with splinters, splinters can be caused by any substance that enters your skin and underlying soft tissues. Other probable splinter sources include:
Glass
Metal
Spines from plants and animals, such as cactus needles and porcupine quills
Plastic
Thorns
What complications are associated with splinters?
Considering their uneven edges, wood splinters can be difficult to remove since they tend to embed themselves in the skin. Incomplete removal of all splinter fragments can result in swelling, infection, toxic responses, and other complications.
Splinters from plant and animal spines, some of which may carry poisons, are of special concern. Certain types of spines, for example, might transmit poison, while others, such as porcupine quills, have the capability to migrate deeper into the skin even after the initial injury.
Smaller splinters are typically straightforward to extract, but larger splinters and those made from delicate materials can be more challenging to remove completely due to the risk of fragmenting. In cases where splinters break apart, it becomes arduous to ascertain whether all remnants have been successfully removed. Indications that a splinter may still be present include:
A non-healing wound
Skin discoloration
Persistent swelling
Tenderness when applying pressure to the affected skin area
Discomfort during movement
Presence of pus
Recurrent infections