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May also be called: Cut

An open wound of the scalp is a cut or break in the skin there.

More to Know

The scalp is an area with many blood vessels, so even minor wounds can bleed a lot.

Seek immediate medical attention if a wound is more than an inch long or appears to be deep, gaping, or won’t stop bleeding. Doctors may try to close the wound with stitches or staples.

Keep in Mind

Deep, large, and dirty wounds need more care. (A “dirty” wound is one that germs have gotten into.) After a child receives medical attention for a scalp wound, follow instructions carefully to prevent infection and minimize scarring.

A to Z dictionary entries are regularly reviewed by KidsHealth medical experts.