The Efficacy of Bromelain-based Enzymatic Debridement in Deep Burn Injury Management: A Comprehensive Systematic...

Bromelain-based enzymatic debridement has gained significant attention for its potential advantages in treating burn wounds. However, no previous meta-analyses have been conducted to provide concise evidence of bromelain's efficacy. Therefore, this study aims to conduct a systematic review and meta-analysis focusing on the comparison of bromelain use versus standard care in patients undergoing burn debridement.

Systematic searches were conducted in PubMed, Embase, and the Cochrane Library databases to identify relevant studies. Data synthesis was performed using random-effects models, with findings presented as mean differences (MDs) and weighted odds ratios, accompanied by their corresponding 95% confidence intervals.

The review analyzed 10 studies, including three randomized controlled trials, two clinical trials, and four observational studies, involving 596 burn patients with an average age of 38 years and a mean total body surface area (TBSA) of 16%. Of the participants, 49% received a topical bromelain mixture, while 51% received standard care. Bromelain was linked to faster debridement (MD -3.92; p < 0.00001) and a higher rate of spontaneous healing (MD 71.00; p < 0.00001). Surgical excision and autograft procedures were less common in the bromelain group, with odds ratios of 0.08 (p < 0.0002) and 0.10 (p = 0.0001). No significant differences were observed in wound closure time, infection rates, blood transfusion needs, Modified Vancouver Scar Scale scores, or hospital stays.

The evidence from this study suggests that the administration of bromelain-based enzymatic debridement significantly reduces the time required to complete debridement, increases the chances of spontaneous healing of burn wounds, and decreases the need for further surgical excisions and autograft procedures.