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Debridement
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Debridement
In some instances, a wound can become contaminated with debris and dead tissue, which can make it very hard for the body to be able to develop new skin so that the wound can heal. When this happens, a procedure known as debridement may be necessary in order to clear that debris and promote faster healing.
Why Debridement is Needed
There are several ways in which debridement helps a wound heal. Dead skin not only blocks the development of healthy new tissue, it also puts a wound at a higher risk for infection. Dead tissue can also hide signs of infection and make it easier for bacteria to spread.
When You May Need Debridement
Not every wound can be cleaned through debridement. It takes a qualified medical professional to accurately determine whether or not your wound will heal properly without the procedure.
How Debridement Works
While debridement sometimes occurs naturally, most of the time a medical procedure is needed. A doctor can sometimes apply substances that will increase moisture, making it easier for the body to degrade and eliminate dead tissue from the wound. Other times, surgery will be necessary to remove any debris and dead material manually.
There are two types of manual debridement. Surgical debridement involves the use of a scalpel and forceps to remove dead tissue. Sharp debridement is similar to surgical debridement, but surgical scissors are used instead of a scalpel and forceps.
