Intermediate
Technical
In the Industry Vocabulary Test
surgical debridement
Surgical removal of dead, damaged, or infected tissue to promote healing and prevent infection.
Full Definition
Surgical debridement is a critical procedure in surgical critical care involving the excision of necrotic, devitalized, or contaminated tissue from wounds or surgical sites. This technique is essential for managing necrotizing soft tissue infections, traumatic wounds, and surgical site complications. The procedure may be performed serially (multiple times) and ranges from conservative sharp debridement to aggressive excision requiring reconstruction.
Usage
Usage note: Note the spelling 'debridement' not 'debridment'.
In Context
- "The patient underwent surgical debridement of the infected abdominal wound." — Operative report
- "Serial surgical debridement was necessary to control the necrotizing fasciitis." — Treatment plan
Also known as
wound debridement
tissue debridement
Don't confuse with
irrigation
lavage