Name of the Procedure:

Negative Pressure Wound Therapy (NPWT) Commonly known as: Vacuum-Assisted Closure (VAC) Therapy, Vacuum-Assisted Drainage Collection

Summary

Negative Pressure Wound Therapy (NPWT) involves the use of a vacuum system to promote healing in chronic or acute wounds. The system includes a tube connected to a wound dressing and a vacuum pump that removes excess fluids and infection material from the wound bed, aiding in faster healing.

Purpose

NPWT is used to improve wound healing by:

• Reducing swelling and removing fluids.
• Decreasing bacterial load.
• Promoting tissue regeneration and wound closure.

Indications

• Chronic wounds (e.g., diabetic ulcers, pressure sores).
• Acute wounds (e.g., surgical wounds, traumatic injuries).
• Partial-thickness burns.
• Wounds with significant exudate or infection.

Preparation

• No special fasting or medication adjustments needed.
• Wound assessment and cleaning are performed prior to application.

Procedure Description

1. Assess the wound and clean the area thoroughly.
2. Apply a special foam or gauze dressing to the wound.
3. Cover the dressing with an adhesive drape to create an airtight seal.
4. Insert a tube through an opening in the drape, connecting it to the vacuum pump.
5. The pump creates negative pressure (suction), drawing fluids from the wound into a collection system.
6. The healthcare provider will regularly change the dressing and monitor the wound.

Tools and Equipment:

• Disposable foam or gauze dressing
• Adhesive drape
• Tubing and vacuum pump system

Anesthesia:

• Generally not required; however, local anesthesia may be applied for pain management during dressing changes.

Duration

The initial setup takes approximately 30 to 60 minutes. The vacuum system operates continuously or intermittently as per the treatment plan.

Setting

• Can be performed in various settings including hospitals, outpatient clinics, or at the patient's home with a portable unit.

Personnel

• Nurses and wound care specialists typically perform the procedure.
• Physicians may oversee the treatment plan.

Risks and Complications

Common risks:

• Skin irritation or maceration from the adhesive drape.
• Pain during dressing changes. Rare risks:
• Bleeding, especially in patients with vascular conditions.
• Infection at the wound site.

Benefits

• Faster wound healing.
• Reduced risk of infection.
• Less frequent dressing changes, providing comfort and convenience.

Recovery

• Patients may resume normal activities with minimal restrictions.
• Follow-up appointments to monitor wound progress and change dressings are necessary.
• Typical recovery time varies based on the wound type and patient health.

Alternatives

• Standard wound care with regular dressing changes.
• Hyperbaric oxygen therapy.
• Surgical intervention in severe cases.

Pros and Cons of Alternatives:

• Standard wound care is less complex but may take longer for healing.
• Hyperbaric therapy can be expensive and less accessible.
• Surgical options may involve longer recovery times and higher risk.

Patient Experience

• Some initial discomfort as the system is activated.
• Ongoing minor discomfort from the vacuum pressure and dressing changes.
• Pain management options such as over-the-counter pain relievers.