First- to third-degree perineal lacerations

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Spontaneous perineal tears usually take the form of lacerations along the midline, affecting the skin and subcutaneous tissue, and sometimes the perineal muscles as well. The most severe type is a third-degree tear, in which the anal sphincter is lacerated or severed. This type of injury always requires careful repair to prevent long-term complications. Sometimes treatment under general anaesthesia is advisable. Conversely, tears of the labia and vaginal opening are common and minor; in some cases, suturing is not even necessary. Treatment of common injuries is carried out under local anaesthesia using absorbable sutures.