Autolytic Debridement - This uses the body's own enzymes and moisture to re-hydrate, soften, and liquefy non-viable tissue. Autolytic debridement is selective so that only necrotic tissue is liquefied. Autolytic debridement can be achieved with hydrocolloids, hydrogels and transparent films.

What is autolytic debridement?

Autolytic debridement is the lysis, or breakdown, of damaged tissue at a wound site by the body's natural defence system by enzymes that digest specific components of body tissues or cells, e.g. proteins, fibrin and collagen (Ramundo 2007).

What is the aim of autolytic debridement?

Autolytic debridement is the most commonly used method of debridement. It uses the body's own enzymes and moisture to rehydrate, soften and liquefy devitalised tissue.