A Scots hospital is pioneering a pineapple treatment for burns victims.
St John’s Hospital in Livingston is the first in the country to use the new treatment called NexoBrid to help patients at its Wallace Burns Unit.
It involves using a tissue-dissolving enzyme made from the pineapple plant to remove burnt tissue, leaving healthy flesh behind.
Beauty therapist Lee-Anne Jones, from Foulden in Berwickshire, has already benefited from the treatment after a summer beach barbecue went wrong.
She said: “After enjoying the food, I moved the disposable barbecue out of the way and in the process stepped on the sand where it had been sitting, seriously burning my foot.”
After assessing Lee-Anne’s injuries, consultant burn, plastic and reconstructive surgeon Hilal Bahia recommended NexoBrid.
He said: “This treatment harnesses the amazing power of plants to help treat burns patients.
“It uses an enzyme called bromelain, derived from the pineapple plant, to dissolve burnt tissue without harming any of the surrounding viable tissue.
“In many patients, the wounds that are left behind are minimised, therefore reducing the need for surgical interventions such as skin grafts.”
The treatment lasts about four hours and involves applying a paste and powder directly to the burn and surrounding area.
Lee-Anne added: “I was in St John’s for just under two weeks.
“I left on crutches, but within a few days I was able to stop using them.
“After two weeks, I was able to drive and, three to four weeks later, I was able to return to work.
“I have nothing but positive things to say about my experience and I am really grateful to have received this new treatment. My care from the hospital was exceptional.
“My healing was quick, and my foot is almost brand new, all thanks to the power of the pineapple plant.”
