If your wound isn't getting better, you might need debridement. The procedure helps wounds heal by removing dead or infected tissue. Debridement can be done with live maggots, special dressings, or ointments that soften tissue. The old tissue can also be cut off or removed with a mechanical force, like running water.

Who can debride wounds?

Surgical sharp and conservative sharp debridement is performed by a skilled practitioner using surgical instruments such as scalpel, curette, scissors, rongeur, and forceps. This debridement type promotes wound healing by removing biofilm and devitalized tissue.

Does debridement always work?

Debridement is only necessary when a wound isn't healing well on its own. In most cases, your own healing process will kick in and begin repairing injured tissues. If there is any tissue that dies, your naturally-occurring enzymes will dissolve it, or the skin will slough off.