What type of tear is documented when a vaginal laceration includes the perineal body?

A second-degree tear is characterized by laceration that extends through the vaginal mucosa and the perineal body, but does not involve the anal sphincter. The perineal body is a fibromuscular structure located between the vaginal opening and the anus, and its involvement indicates a more significant injury than a first-degree tear, which only affects the vaginal mucosa.

In the context of obstetric lacerations, a first-degree tear involves only the vaginal mucosa, while a third-degree tear extends through the vaginal mucosa, perineal body, and includes the anal sphincter. A fourth-degree tear goes even further, involving the vaginal mucosa, perineal body, anal sphincter, and rectal mucosa. By understanding these classifications, it becomes clear that a tear that involves the perineal body specifically fits the criteria for a second-degree tear.