What to Expect from Your Wound Debridement

A wound describes any break or injury in your skin or other bodily tissues. Wounds can vary in severity from minor scrapes and scratches that require bandaids to cuts, punctures, and surgical incisions that require sutures. 

Whether big or small, all wounds need healthy tissue to heal. Without it, wounds can become larger, chronic, infected, and even life-threatening. When these issues arise, surgical wound debridement can help.

Scott A. deVilleneuve, MD, is a top-ranked surgeon at Surgical Associates of North Texas in McKinney, Texas. One of his specialties is soft tissue surgery, such as surgical wound debridement. In this blog, he explains what wound debridement is and how it’s performed.

How surgical wound debridement works

There are several wound debridement procedures, and your specific procedure will depend on the severity of your wound. As you might expect, surgical wound debridement involves using special sharp instruments — such as scalpels, curettes, and scissors — or heat. In most cases, you receive anesthesia for the procedure. 

During your surgery, Dr. deVilleneuve uses these tools to remove unhealthy tissue in the wound while preserving as much viable tissue as possible. He also thoroughly cleans and disinfects the tissue.

Once the problem tissue is removed, the healthy tissue that remains has a better chance of fighting infection and healing properly. The time it takes for your wound to heal will depend on the injury’s severity and overall health. 

What to expect following surgical wound debridement

Following surgical wound debridement, it’s common to experience some pain and swelling in the treatment site. This usually improves within a few days.

If your case is like most, you’ll be able to go home the same day with a bandage or moist dressing protecting the site. Furthermore, Dr. deVilleneuve will provide detailed instructions on how long to leave the bandage and when to replace it. He’ll also provide guidance on when you can resume your normal routine. 

In addition to your customized post-op instructions, you should plan on the following:

• Eating a well-balanced diet with healthy sources of protein to promote wound healing
• Taking medication as instructed
• Getting plenty of rest to help you recover
• Keeping the wound clean and dressings dry per your wound care instructions
• Avoiding activities or positions that could put pressure on the treatment area
• Using supportive devices, if necessary
• Avoiding swimming, baths, hot tubs, or other activities that could soak the wound in water until it heals

You also shouldn’t smoke. This habit dries out the skin, reduces blood flow, and slows the healing process. If you smoke, talk to Dr. deVilleneuve before your procedure so he can offer strategies to ensure the best outcome for your surgery.

If you need wound debridement, Dr. deVilleneuve can give you the care you need. To learn more, call 972-525-0245 or book an appointment online with Surgical Associates of North Texas today.