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Ulcer Debridement

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Pearls and Pitfalls in Skin Ulcer Management

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Abstract

Debridement plays a pivotal role in the management of ulcers by facilitating wound healing and preventing complications. This procedure involves the removal of necrotic tissue, foreign material, and debris from the wound bed to create an optimal environment for healing.

Various methods of debridement are available, each with its unique advantages and considerations. Autolytic debridement harnesses the body’s natural healing processes, utilizing moisture-retentive dressings to promote enzymatic breakdown of necrotic tissue. Enzymatic debridement involves the application of topical agents, such as bromelain or collagenase, to selectively target and dissolve devitalized tissue. Mechanical debridement employs physical force, such as wet-to-dry dressings or high-pressure irrigation, to mechanically remove debris and necrotic material. Sharp debridement is a surgical technique performed by skilled practitioners using sharp instruments to precisely excise necrotic tissue. Surgical debridement, on the other hand, involves more extensive tissue removal and is typically reserved for complex or non-responsive wounds.

The choice of debridement method depends on various factors, including the characteristics of the ulcer, such as size, depth, and presence of infection, as well as the patient’s overall health and individual considerations. Careful assessment and consideration of these factors are essential to determine the most appropriate approach for effective debridement.

A comprehensive understanding of debridement contributes to improved ulcer management outcomes, promoting wound healing and enhancing overall patient well-being.

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Author information

Authors and Affiliations

  1. Division of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Department of Precision and Regenerative Medicine and Ionian Area (DiMePRe-J), University of Bari Aldo Moro, Bari, Italy

    Tedeschi Pasquale & Michele Maruccia

Authors
  1. Tedeschi Pasquale
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  2. Michele Maruccia
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Editor information

Editors and Affiliations

  1. Unit of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Department of Precision and Regenerative Medicine and Jonic Area, University of Bari, Bari, Italy

    Michele Maruccia

  2. Plastic Surgery Unit, University of Trieste, Cattinara Hospital, Trieste, Italy

    Giovanni Papa

  3. Difficult Wound Healing Unit, Policlinico di Monza, Vercelli, Italy, Italy

    Elia Ricci

  4. Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, University of Bari Aldo Moro, Bari, Italy

    Giuseppe Giudice

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Pasquale, T., Maruccia, M. (2023). Ulcer Debridement. In: Maruccia, M., Papa, G., Ricci, E., Giudice, G. (eds) Pearls and Pitfalls in Skin Ulcer Management. Springer, Cham. https://doi.org/10.1007/978-3-031-45453-0_7

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  • DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/978-3-031-45453-0_7

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  • Publisher Name: Springer, Cham

  • Print ISBN: 978-3-031-45452-3

  • Online ISBN: 978-3-031-45453-0

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