Negative Pressure Wound Therapy
Negative pressure therapy, commonly called VAC therapy, or simply a wound VAC, is an advanced dressing designed to help wounds heal faster. Wound VACs are typically reserved for deep wounds or wounds over exposed tendons or bone. Wound VACs are also used to hold skin grafts in place.
A wound VAC is a pump, connected to a dressing on a wound with tubing. The pump is carried by an over-the-shoulder carrying case. The tubing is typically run down the leg inside the pants. The tubing then connects to the dressing. When the pump runs, it creates a “vacuum” over the wound. The “vacuum” will suck up drainage, but will also keep out bacteria and stimulate the wound to fill in faster.
Check out the video below for an in-depth look at how negative pressure therapy works!
Pros:
– Increase rate of wound healing
– Decrease chance of infection
– Manage Drainage
– Eliminate need for self wound care
Cons:
– Hassle of carrying around the pump
– Occasional noise of the pump
– Dressing changes need to be done by certified medical personnel
How It Works
The pump is a small device with a suction canister connected to the tubing
The tubing will connect to the dressing to provide suction at the wound
