Fact Checked
[/sg_popup]It is important to note that open wounds are considered as a type of trauma that would require immediate first aid care. In some cases, the trauma is serious in which the skin tissue within and surrounding the wound starts to die which is known as necrosis. The removal of the dead skin from the wound is called as debridement and can be carried out through surgery or utilizing a variety of non-surgical methods. The proper method will depend on the shape, severity, size, if infection is present and the rules regarding debridement.
http://youtu.be/ZlbanGBgecc
Steps on removing dead skin from wounds
- You can utilize the mechanical method of debridement with the help of wet-to-dry dressings when removing the dead skin from wounds. You have to provide a pain medication to the individual before the process is started. Using a gauze bandage, you have to moisten it using sterile water and then place on the wound and allow the bandage to dry. Remove the dry dressing from the area and the dead tissue will tag along with the bandage. In some cases, you might be required to apply a number of bandages all throughout the day to completely removal all the dead tissue in a particular wound.
- You can also perform another method of mechanical debridement if you have access to a physical therapy facility. Take note that pulsed lavage and hydrotherapy can be used to eliminate dead skin using water. The hydrotherapy sessions will take place in a whirlpool while the pulsed lavage treatment utilizes a portable irrigation system. Both of these methods usually take 20-30 minutes and must be carried out several times in a day to completely eliminate the dead skin.
- For those who are not suitable for the surgical removal of the dead skin, they are suitable for the enzymatic treatment of the wound. You have to clean the affected area using a solution of sodium chloride and apply an ointment that is prescribed by the doctor. The wound must be covered using a bandage and change the dressings as instructed by the doctor. The enzymes in the medication will help break down the dead skin tissue. Another option of enzymatic treatment which is called autolytic debridement can be used for wounds that contain and emanate fluids. You have to apply an occlusive dressing on the wound to retain the moisture. After some time, the body will clear away the dead skin tissue. Once the fluid from the wound soaks through the bandage, it would require fresh dressing.
- The last option is the surgical removal of the dead skin tissue if the wound is infected, deep or at risk for developing systemic infection or sepsis. Always remember that surgery is required for immediate debridement.
Once debridement is performed, it can help promote that proper healing of open wounds.