Enzymatic Debridement Reduces Pigment Load by Over 90% in Injuries
Summary: A prospective study at Sheba Medical Center evaluated bromelain-based enzymatic debridement (NexoBrid) for traumatic tattoos. After initial mechanical scrubbing, NexoBrid achieved a mean 92.5% reduction in residual pigmentation across 15 patients with friction and blast injuries. The treatment was well tolerated with no adverse events, producing cleaner wound beds.
Key Highlights:
- 92.5% average pigment reduction (from 37.5% to 2.1% pigmented area)
- Abrasion injuries: ~96% clearance; blast injuries: ~84% clearance
- Applied within 24 hours post-injury under sedation
- Selective action on devitalized tissue; well-tolerated in patients aged 4–51
Keywords: enzymatic debridement, traumatic tattoo, NexoBrid, bromelain