MOREL-LAVALLÉE LESION: A SOFT TISSUE INJURY

Abstract

This study aimed to highlight Morel-Lavallée Lesion (MLL) among healthcare professionals in order to facilitate its early recognition and reduce morbidity and mortality. An exploratory literature review was conducted using the Google Scholar, PubMed, and BVS databases, with the descriptors "closed degloving injury," "Morel-Lavallée lesion," and "Morel-Lavallée," combined using the Boolean operator OR. A total of 833 articles were initially identified. After applying the inclusion and exclusion criteria and relevant filters, 41 articles remained and underwent a preliminary screening based on their abstracts. Of these, 22 studies focusing on pathophysiology, diagnostic methods, and/or treatment were selected for the review. It was concluded that MLL remains an underrecognized condition, making delayed diagnosis and inappropriate management common. The limited theoretical description in the literature and the absence of well-established guidelines for its identification and management reinforce the need for further, more comprehensive studies.