Wound debridement

When a doctor removes dead or unhealthy tissue from a wound, it's called debridement. Doctors do this to help a wound heal.

It's a good idea to remove dead tissue for a few reasons. First, dead tissue gives bacteria a place to grow. This can cause infection. Second, dead tissue can slow the growth of healthy tissue.

Your doctor will clean the wound. There are a few ways to remove the dead tissue, such as cutting it out or using an ointment.

If your wound is large, you may need a skin graft. This helps new tissue grow.

How long it takes your wound to heal depends on how serious it is. It also depends on whether you have other health problems that may slow healing. In some cases, people need to have a wound debrided again.

To debride the wound, your doctor may first use a saline solution to clean the wound. Then your doctor may do one of these things. The doctor may use:

• A scalpel or scissors to cut dead tissue from the wound.
• A device that uses pressure to wash the wound.
• An ointment that goes on top of the wound and breaks down dead tissue.
• A special bandage over the wound to keep it moist. This can help your body get rid of the dead tissue on its own.

Procedures can be stressful for both your child and you. This information will help you understand what you can expect. And it will help you safely prepare for your child's procedure.

Preparing for the procedure

• Talk to your child about the procedure. Say that it will help your child heal better. Hospitals know how to take care of children. The staff will do all they can to make it easier for your child.
• Understand exactly what procedure is planned, along with the risks, benefits, and other options.
• Tell the doctor ALL the medicines, vitamins, supplements, and herbal remedies your child takes. Some may increase the risk of problems during the procedure. Your doctor will tell you if your child should stop taking any of them before the procedure and how soon to do it.

The day before the procedure

• A nurse may call you (or you may need to call the hospital). This is to confirm the time and date of your child's procedure and answer any questions.
• Remember to follow your doctor's instructions about your child taking or stopping medicines before the procedure. This includes over-the-counter medicines.