A Comparison of Topical Agents for Eschar Removal in a Porcine Model: Bromelain-enriched vs Traditional Collagenase Agents.

This article focuses on comparing the efficacy of two enzymatic agents—collagenase and a bromelain-enriched enzymatic preparation derived from pineapple stems—in removing eschar from deep partial-thickness (DPT) and full-thickness (FT) burns using a porcine model. The study found that a single 4-hour application of the bromelain-enriched agent resulted in complete and rapid eschar removal in all treated burns, whereas collagenase required up to 14 days and did not achieve complete removal in all cases. While collagenase is approved for widespread use and suitable for outpatient settings, the bromelain-enriched agent, though faster and more effective, is currently approved only for hospital use by specialized personnel due to its application complexity and associated pain management needs. The findings suggest that the bromelain-enriched enzymatic agent may offer a more rapid alternative to collagenase for enzymatic debridement of deep burns, with potential implications for reducing surgical interventions.