Intermediate
Technical
In the Industry Vocabulary Test
washout procedure
Surgical intervention to remove infected or necrotic material and irrigate affected tissues or cavities.
Full Definition
A washout procedure involves surgical exploration, debridement of devitalized tissue, and copious irrigation to remove infectious material, blood clots, or debris from body cavities or tissues. Common in surgical critical care for treating peritonitis, infected wounds, or contaminated surgical sites. The procedure may require multiple staged operations and is often performed urgently to control sepsis. Documentation should specify the anatomical location, findings, and whether the washout was planned or emergent.
Usage
Usage note: Specify anatomical location when documenting.
In Context
- "An emergent abdominal washout was performed for purulent peritonitis." — Operative report
- "The patient returned for a second washout procedure due to persistent infection." — Progress note
Also known as
irrigation and debridement
wound washout
Don't confuse with
wound care
dressing change