Debridement, which can also be called debridement, is a procedure that is performed to remove necrotic, dead and infected tissue from wounds, improving healing and preventing infection from spreading to other parts of the body. It can also be done to remove foreign bodies from inside the wound, such as pieces of glass.
The procedure is performed by a doctor, a general practitioner or a vascular doctor, in the operating room or by a qualified nurse, in a clinic or outpatient clinic and different types may be indicated, depending on the characteristics of the wound and the health of the person. .
- Debridement is a very important procedure to treat a wound with necrotic and infected tissue.
- As removing this dead tissue improves healing.
- Decreases secretions.
- Such as exudate.
- Reduces the action of microorganisms and improves the absorption of ointment with antibiotics.
Surgical debridement, for example, is widely used in people with diabetic foot sores, as this procedure reduces inflammation and releases substances that help healthy tissues grow in the wound. Learn how to treat and treat diabetic foot sores.
There are different types of debridements that are indicated by your doctor based on the characteristics of the wound such as size, depth, location, amount of secretion and whether you have an infection or not, and may include:
In addition, a technique called biological debridement is used that uses sterile larvae of the species Lucilia sericata, the common green fly, to eat dead tissue and injured bacteria, control infection and improve healing. The larvae are placed on the wound with a dressing that should be replaced twice a week.
Before performing the procedure, the doctor or nurse will examine the wound, check the extent of the necrosis sites, and also discuss general health conditions, as people with bleeding problems, such as idiopathic thrombocytopenic purpura, may have difficulties. healing, as well as having an increased risk of bleeding during debridement.
The location and duration of the procedure depend on the debridement technique used and can be performed at a hospital surgical center or an outpatient clothing clinic. Therefore, before the procedure, the doctor or nurse will explain the procedure to be performed and make specific recommendations, which should be followed in accordance with the instructions.
After the procedure, it is necessary to take certain precautions such as keeping the dressing clean and dry, avoid swimming in the pool or sea and not applying pressure at the wound site.
The most common complications of debridement may be bleeding from the wound, irritation of the surrounding skin, pain after the procedure and an allergic reaction to the products used, however, the benefits are greater and should be considered a priority, since in some cases a wound does not heal without debridement.
However, if symptoms such as fever, swelling, bleeding and severe pain occur after debridement, immediate medical attention is needed to recommend the most appropriate treatment.