What is defined as a soft tissue injury caused by the penetration of a sharp object?

A soft tissue injury that results from the penetration of a sharp object is known as a puncture wound. This type of injury typically occurs when something pointed, such as a nail or a needle, pierces the skin and underlying tissues. Puncture wounds can be particularly concerning because they may introduce bacteria deep into the body, increasing the risk of infection, and can also damage internal structures without causing significant surface bleeding.

In contrast, a contusion refers to a bruise caused by blunt force trauma that damages small blood vessels, leading to bleeding under the skin without breaking the skin itself. A fracture involves the breaking of a bone, which is distinctly different from a soft tissue injury. A sprain occurs when ligaments are stretched or torn, generally due to sudden twisting or impact, and does not involve penetration by a sharp object. Thus, the characteristics of a puncture wound distinctly define it as the correct answer in this scenario.