Intermediate
Technical
In the Industry Vocabulary Test
Debridement
Pronunciation: /dɪˈbridmənt/
Surgical removal of necrotic, damaged, or infected tissue to promote wound healing and prepare the wound bed for reconstruction.
Full Definition
Debridement is the surgical or mechanical removal of necrotic, devitalized, or infected tissue from a wound to facilitate healing and prevent infection. In dermatologic surgery, debridement may be sharp (surgical), mechanical, enzymatic, or autolytic. The procedure creates a clean wound bed with healthy, bleeding tissue that promotes granulation tissue formation and epithelialization. Proper debridement is essential before applying skin grafts, flaps, or allowing healing by secondary intention.
Usage
Usage note: Pronunciation emphasis on second syllable; not 'DEH-bride-ment'.
In Context
- "Sharp debridement of the infected surgical site removed all necrotic tissue and exposed healthy dermis." — Wound care note
- "Following debridement, the wound bed showed good bleeding and was suitable for skin grafting." — Operative report
Also known as
wound cleaning
tissue removal
Contrasted with
tissue preservation
conservative management
Don't confuse with
excision
curettage