Wilderness: Surgeonfish Cuts (cont.)

Medical Author:

Scott D. Fell, DO, FAAEM

Medical Editor:

William C. Shiel Jr., MD, FACP, FACR

Dr. Shiel received a Bachelor of Science degree with honors from the University of Notre Dame. There he was involved in research in radiation biology and received the Huisking Scholarship. After graduating from St. Louis University School of Medicine, he completed his Internal Medicine residency and Rheumatology fellowship at the University of California, Irvine. He is board-certified in Internal Medicine and Rheumatology.

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Surgeonfish Cuts Treatment

Apply direct pressure to stop any bleeding.
Clean the cut with soap and water thoroughly.
Soak the cut in hot, non-scalding water (to about 110 degrees F or 43.3 C) for 30 to 90 minutes or until the pain is relieved.
Scrub the cut really well to remove any foreign material (dirt, shells, etc) out of the cut
Stitches are rarely going to be placed because it would increase the risk of infection. However, if the cut is very large or is in a cosmetic area (for example the face) then the health care professional may consider placing stitches after explaining the options to the patient.
Antibiotics may be prescribed to prevent secondary infection due to the nature of the cut and the depth. This is controversial and based on the size, depth and location of the laceration or injury sustained.