Wound Debridement: Before Your Child's Procedure
What is wound debridement?
When a doctor removes dead or unhealthy tissue from a wound, it's
called debridement (say "dih-BREED-munt"). 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.
To do this procedure, the doctor may use a saline solution to clean
the wound. Then the doctor may use:
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A scalpel or scissors to cut dead tissue from the wound.
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A device that uses pressure to wash the wound.
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An ointment that goes on top of the wound and breaks down dead
tissue.
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A special bandage over the wound to keep it moist. This can help
your child's body get rid of the dead tissue on its own.
If your child's wound is large, your child may need a skin graft.
This helps new tissue grow.
How do you prepare for the procedure?
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
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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.
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The day before the procedure
What happens on the day of the procedure?
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Follow the instructions exactly about when your child should stop
eating and drinking. If you don't, the procedure may be canceled.
If your doctor told you to have your child take any medicines on
the day of the procedure, have your child take them with only a
sip of water.
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Follow the doctor's instructions about when your child should
bathe or shower before the procedure. Do not apply lotion or
deodorant.
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Your child may brush their teeth. But tell your child not to
swallow any toothpaste or water.
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Do not let your child wear contact lenses. Bring your child's
glasses or contact lens case.
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Be sure your child has something that's a reminder of home. A
special stuffed animal, toy, or blanket may be comforting. For an
older child, it might be a book or music.
At the hospital or surgery center
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A parent or legal guardian must accompany your child.
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Your child will be kept comfortable and safe by the anesthesia
provider. The anesthesia may make your child sleep. Or it may just
numb the area being worked on.
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The procedure will likely take about 30 minutes. But it can take
longer. It depends on how the doctor does the debridement. It also
depends on where the wound is, how big it is, and how serious it
is.
When should you call your doctor?
Current as of: November 16, 2023
Content Version: 14.0
Care instructions adapted under license by your healthcare
professional. If you have questions about a medical condition or
this instruction, always ask your healthcare professional.
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