Wound

By: Bob Umberhandt, MD

Wound appears benign.  

This means something from the outside. 

A sight, nothing more, of pink edges, of no erythema

Epithelial cells. Basement membrane. 

Adequate skin coverage without tension 

There is no warmth, no appreciable drainage, or fluctuant tissue. 

This means something deeper.  A sense.  

An action that takes time and the effort of comparison. 

A level of attention to detail. 

A trust of physiology, of monocryl, and chlorhexidine.

But I know what is under there.  

This means a level of intimacy and effort

I know what it will become when you touch your scar

And notice that it is different than your other skin. 

The dysesthesia will be a comfort

And will keep you from knowing how close you actually were. 

Dr. Umberhandt is a practicing pediatric orthopaedic attending physician. He notes, more importantly, he is a partner, father, and advocate for kids.  He enjoys writing about moments that help him comprehend the world around him. He likes bikes, music, and teaching.