debridement

(noun)

The removal of dead, damaged, or infected tissue to improve the healing potential of the remaining healthy tissue.

Related Terms

Examples of debridement in the following topics:

  • Noncholera Vibrios

    • Medical therapy consists of the following: prompt initiation of effective antibiotic therapy (doxycycline or a quinolone), intensive medical therapy with aggressive fluid replacement, vasopressors for hypotension and septic shock, early fasciotomy within 24 hours after development of clinical symptoms in patients with necrotizing fasciitis, early debridement of the infected wound, expeditious and serial surgical evaluation and intervention to prevent rapid deterioration, especially in patients with necrotizing fasciitis or compartment syndrome.

  • Skin Grafts

    • NPWT can also be used between debridement and graft operations to assist an infected wound in remaining clean for a period of time before new skin is applied.

  • Gangrene

    • Treatment of gangrene is usually surgical debridement, wound care, and antibiotic therapy, though amputation is necessary in many cases.