Which type of closed wound is characterized by swelling and bruising?

The type of closed wound characterized by swelling and bruising is a contusion. A contusion occurs when blood vessels are damaged or broken due to a blunt force impact, leading to bleeding under the skin. This results in the characteristic discoloration (bruising) and swelling at the injury site.

The accumulation of blood from the ruptured vessels creates the visible bruising, while the body's inflammatory response contributes to swelling. This condition can result from various incidents, such as falls, sports injuries, or any blunt trauma, and is common in both minor and severe impacts.

In contrast, other wound types listed do not typically present with swelling and bruising in the same way. An avulsion involves a portion of skin being torn away, a laceration is a cut or tear in the skin, and amputation refers to the removal of a limb or body part. These types of wounds might show other symptoms but do not primarily present with the swelling and bruising characteristic of a contusion.