A Tunable Flat-Jet Hydro-Debridement Device: Clinical Feasibility for Soft Tissue Wound Management

Background: Chronic wounds, ulcers, and lacerations require staged debridement and irrigation to promote healing. However, conventional techniques of debridement, such as surgical, chemical, or autolytic, struggle to fully remove residual necrotic tissue, slough, and unhealthy granulation from wound sites, especially when lodged within wound clefts and cavities, and in wounds with exposed structures. This promotes polymicrobial biofilms, delays wound closure, and causes significant discomfort with increased morbidity. Objective: To demonstrate the feasibility of using an indigenously developed tunable flat-jet hydro-debridement device (presently termed as CleanseJet), a frugal wound debridement system designed for deployment in resource-constrained clinical settings. Methods: An open-label, interventional, single-centre, parallel-group pilot randomized controlled trial was conducted to clinically evaluate an indigenously developed tunable flat-jet hydro-debridement device in patients with wounds of varied aetiology. The device provided adjustable spray impact force and coverage area tailored to wound characteristics. Outcomes were compared with a control group receiving standard wound care alone, with time to complete granulation serving as the primary healing endpoint. Outcomes were compared with a control cohort receiving standard of care alone. Results: The removal of loose devitalized tissue, slough, and biofilms from the wound bed improved the healing, which were monitored using the SINBAD scoring system. No adverse events were reported, supporting the feasibility and safety of CleanseJet. Conclusion: While commercial hydro-debridement systems are effective, they are often costly, rely on disposable components, and require specialized training. In contrast, CleanseJet provides a low-cost, easy-to-use alternative that can be operated with minimal training, making it suitable for broader clinical use without observed adverse effects.