What may be done to treat excessive hypergranulation tissue?

• A. Antibiotics
• B. Topical hydrate
• C. Cauterization with silver nitrate sticks
• D. Surgical graft

Answer: (C)

Hypergranulation tissue is when the wound produces excess granulation tissue that grows above the wound bed, acting like a barrier to epithelial migration and wound closure. The best way to treat this is to reduce or remove that excess tissue to reveal a healthy bed for re-epithelialization. Cauterization with silver nitrate sticks provides a targeted, chemical means to desiccate and shrink the exuberant tissue, allowing the wound to re-spreed and heal from the base up. This approach is chosen because it directly addresses the overgrowth rather than just addressing infection or moisture. It must be done carefully to avoid damaging surrounding skin, and after care includes keeping the area clean and using appropriate dressings to prevent recurrence. Antibiotics aren’t indicated unless there’s an infection, topical hydrating agents won’t resolve the overgrowth, and a surgical graft would not treat the excess granulation itself.