Debridement

Definition

Debridement is the medical removal of dead, damaged, or infected tissue to improve the healing potential of the remaining healthy tissue. It is often used in treating severe skin and eye bacterial infections.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Debridement helps reduce the risk of infection by removing necrotic tissue that can harbor bacteria.
2. There are different methods of debridement including surgical, mechanical, chemical, and autolytic.
3. Surgical debridement is typically performed by a healthcare professional in a sterile environment.
4. Autolytic debridement uses the body's own enzymes and moisture to rehydrate, soften, and liquefy dead tissue for easier removal.
5. Chemical debridement involves using topical enzymes to break down dead tissues.

Review Questions

• What are the primary goals of debridement in the treatment of bacterial skin infections?
• Name and describe two different methods of debridement.
• Why is it important to remove necrotic tissue from an infected wound?

Related terms

Necrosis: The death of cells or tissues through injury or disease.

Antibiotics: Medications used to treat bacterial infections.

Wound Care: The process of preventing infection and promoting healing in wounds.