Traumatic tattooing

Traumatic tattoos may be classified into abrasive and explosive types. The abrasive form leaves the pigment deposit in the more superficial layers of the skin. Explosive forms of traumatic tattooing usually have a central focus of deeply embedded detritus with more superficially placed particles radiating from the central focus. In either form, the best results are achieved by immediate meticulous care of the wound. Many instruments and abrasive devices have been used to remove the embedded pigmented debris, yet the simplest and most successful is the sterile, hard, natural-bristle toothbrush. This can easily be sterilized, packaged, and kept available in the emergency room and in the operating room.