Which Blood Vessel Is Most Likely to Be Damaged During a Deep Cut?

The type of blood vessel damaged depends on the cut's depth. Superficial cuts usually damage capillaries (causing slow, oozing bleeding) or superficial veins, which lie just under the skin.

However, a deep cut is most likely to damage a major artery. Arteries are typically located deep within the body, protected by muscles and bone, precisely to prevent easy injury. Damage to an artery is a serious medical emergency.

You can often tell which vessel is damaged by the bleeding:

• Arterial Bleeding: The blood is bright red (oxygen-rich) and spurts or pulses rhythmically with the heartbeat due to the high pressure. This requires immediate medical attention.
• Venous Bleeding: The blood is dark red (oxygen-poor) and flows out in a steady, consistent stream. While still serious, it does not pulse.