Scalp lacerations are tears of the scalp skin produced by blunt or sharp trauma. Because the scalp is richly vascularized, even small wounds can bleed profusely. Typical features include: Immediate heavy bleedingBright-red blood often streams down the face and neck; arterial spurting is possible if the deep temporal or occipital vessels are injured. Visible gap or flapThe wound edges gape open, revealing sub-cutaneous fat, galea, or occasionally bone; hair may hide smaller defects. Pain and localised tendernessSharp pain at the site, worsened by jaw movement or palpation; surrounding bruising and swelling develop quickly. Swelling and hematomaRapidly forming soft or boggy... Learn more