Implementing Nexobrid for Burn Debridement in a Major Italian Burn Center: A Retrospective Review of Patient Outcomes

Abstract

Abstract This retrospective study examines the implementation of Nexobrid, an enzymatic debriding agent developed from bromelain, for burn debridement in a major Italian burn center. With previous research showing encouraging results for Nexobrid in terms of reducing the need for surgical intervention and faster eschar removal, the current study aims to add to the growing body of evidence regarding its potential benefits and limitations. The patient database was utilized to identify patients who received Nexobrid treatment between October 2019 and June 2023. A retrospective analysis was conducted to gather demographic information, burn causes, procedural details, and patient outcomes. Of the 30 patients treated with Nexobrid, 10% did not require further surgical intervention, showcasing Nexobrid’s potential to improve patient outcomes. However, over 80% of patients still required additional surgical intervention, demonstrating that Nexobrid’s effectiveness varies across patients and should be considered a tool rather than a definitive solution in burn wound management. A few patients developed complications, and about 10% of patients succumbed to systemic complications. The study results reveal both the potential benefits and limitations of using Nexobrid in burn debridement. While it successfully eliminated the need for further surgical intervention in a small percentage of patients, the majority still required additional surgical procedures. These findings not only highlight Nexobrid’s role as a tool in burn wound management but also point toward the discrepancies with previous studies. The authors suggest future research should include randomized controlled trials, direct comparisons between Nexobrid and traditional debridement methods, and studies incorporating larger and more diverse patient groups.