Debridement is a medical procedure that involves removing dead or unhealthy tissue from a wound to help it heal. Dead tissue can give bacteria a place to grow, which can cause infection, and can also slow the growth of healthy tissue. There are several ways to remove dead tissue, including cutting it out or using an ointment. The type of debridement used depends on the wound, age, overall health, and risk for complications. The different types of debridement include:

• Sharp debridement: This involves surgically removing nonviable tissue with a scalpel or other sharp medical tools. During the procedure, the wound is carefully examined to locate all nonviable tissue, which is then removed while leaving viable tissue intact.

• Autolytic debridement: This uses the bodys own enzymes and moisture to rehydrate, soften, and liquefy non-viable tissue. Autolytic debridement is selective so that only necrotic tissue is liquefied. This method does not cause pain and may be used between visits.

• Enzymatic debridement: This involves using a medication to break down the dead tissue in the wound. It can be used with sharp debridement.

• Mechanical debridement: This is a non-selective type of debridement that removes both devitalized tissue and debris and viable tissue. It is the most common type of wound debridement and removes unhealthy tissue with a moving force. Types of mechanical debridement include hydrotherapy and wet-to-dry dressing.

Debridement is an essential step in the protocol for treating diabetic foot ulcers, which occur in at least 15% of patients with diabetes and precede 84% of all diabetes-related lower-leg amputations. Wound debridement will speed up the healing process, minimize scarring, and reduce complications of infections.