Q: What is the basis of maggot debridement therapy (MDT) in necrotic tissue therapy?


Answer: Maggots derive nutrients through a process known as "extracorporeal digestion" by secreting a broad spectrum of proteolytic enzymes. In maggot therapy, large numbers of small maggots consume necrotic tissue far more precisely than is possible in a normal surgical operation, and actually can debride a wound in just a day or two. Size (length and girth) of maggot can be monitored as they ingest necrotic tissues.