A perineal wound, as described by the American Urological Association Foundation, is the injury or trauma of the perineum, which is the area between the anus and scrotum in males, and the area between the anus and the vagina in females. A perineal wound can be surgically induced, or it can spontaneously occur as a tear during childbirth. Blunt force can also cause a perineal wound. Complications from a perineal wound can occur.
Urethral Trauma
Urethral trauma is the damage that occurs at the anterior or posterior portion of the urethra, and usually results from straddle causing injuries, as well as pelvic fractures and perineal wounds, states the American Urologic Association Foundation. Urethral trauma if not managed or surgically repaired can cause complications such as urinary retention and urinary leakage to the surrounding tissue.
Perineal Wound Infection
Perineal wound infection can occur after a localized or systemic spread of opportunistic microorganisms in the affected perineal area, according to Medline Plus. Symptoms of perineal infection include pain and swelling, as well as wound discharges. Antibiotics can treat these types of infections.
Urinary Tract Infections
According to the National Kidney and Urologic Diseases Information Clearinghouse, infections occurring at the urinary tract, which is composed of the kidneys, the ureters, the bladder, the prostate in males, and the urethra, is one of the complications of perineal wounds. The bacteria that cause urinary tract infection can thrive in the urethra and the area surrounding it including the perineum. Perineal wounds increase the area's susceptibility to infection.
Impaired Healing
According to the National Institute of General Medical Sciences, impaired or delayed wound healing is one of the possible complications of perineal wounds. In some instances, the wound has trouble repairing itself following an injury; this impairment is common in older patients and those with conditions such as diabetes and bleeding disorders.
Pain
Pain resulting from a perineal wound is caused by the interruption of the soft tissues and nerves in the perineum, according to MedlinePlus. Pain is subjective and varies for each patient; it can either be sharp or dull. The treatment of pain depends upon the cause and in most cases, it is managed with pain relievers.
