About Negative pressure wound therapy
what is negative pressure wound therapy ?
Negative Pressure Wound Therapy (NPWT), also known as vacuum-assisted closure (VAC), is an advanced treatment designed to accelerate wound healing. By applying controlled suction to the wound surface, NPWT removes excess fluid, reduces swelling, and promotes tissue growth, making it a vital tool for managing complex or non-healing wounds.
How NPWT Works ?
01.
Application
A sterile foam dressing is placed into the wound cavity.
02.
Sealing and suction
The area is covered with an airtight film to create a sealed environment. Then A tube connects the dressing to a programmable vacuum pump, which applies negative pressure (typically -125 mmHg to -75 mmHg).
03.
Mechanism
This pressure encourages fluid removal, increases blood flow, and stimulates granulation tissue formation.
NPWT is recommended for
01.
Chronic wounds
Like: pressure ulcers and bed sores
02.
Surgical wounds
Like : post-operative infections, dehiscence
03.
Traumatic injuries
Like : Burns and abrasions
04.
Flap/Graft stabalization
Refrences
1. Clinical Efficacy in Vascular Surgery
Title: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis Comparing NPWT to Standard Therapy in Vascular Surgery
Source: ScienceDirect
Summary: Meta-analysis of 7 trials showing NPWT significantly reduces surgical site infections (SSIs) in closed groin incisions post-vascular surgery, though further large-scale studies are recommended.
Link: https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S1743919120302028
2. Mechanism of Action: Pressure and Perfusion
Title: Pressure Distribution and Flow Characteristics During NPWT
Source: ScienceDirect
Summary: Investigates how NPWT affects tissue perfusion and pressure distribution, revealing that higher suction levels temporarily reduce blood flow, impacting clinical application in patients with compromised circulation.
Link: https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0965206X19301299
3. Clinical Guidelines and Reviews
Title: EWMA Document: Negative Pressure Wound Therapy
Source: PubMed
Summary: A comprehensive review by the European Wound Management Association (EWMA) evaluating NPWT’s role in acute and chronic wounds, including evidence gaps and organizational implications.
Link: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28345371/
4. Textbook Reference
Title: Negative Pressure Wound Therapy (StatPearls)
Source: PubMed Bookshelf
Summary: A detailed textbook chapter covering NPWT’s mechanisms, indications (e.g., open fractures, diabetic ulcers), and modern advancements like instillation therapy.
Link: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/35015413/
English