Vacuum Assisted Closure- utilization as home based therapy in the management of complex diabetic extremity wounds

OBJECTIVE: Vacuum assisted closure is a reported technique to manage complex wounds. We have utilized this technique by using simple locally available material in the management of our patients on outpatient basis. The objective of this study is to present our experience. METHODS: This study was conducted from June 2011 to June 2013 at Dow University Hospital and Aga Khan University Hospital, Karachi. There were 38 patients managed with vacuum assisted closure. Mean age was 56±7.8 years. Twenty three patients presented with necrotizing fasciitis and 15 patients with gangrene. Lower limbs were involved in majority of the patients. Debridement or amputations were done. Vacuum dressing was changed twice weekly in outpatient department. Wounds were closed secondarily if possible or covered with split thickness skin graft in another admission. RESULTS: All the wounds were successfully granulated at the end of vacuum therapy. Mean hospital stay was 7.5 days. Vacuum dressing was applied for a mean of 20 days. There was reduction in the size of the wound. Thirteen patients underwent secondary closure of the wound under local anesthesia, 18 patients required coverage with split thickness skin graft and 7 patients healed with secondary intention. CONCLUSION: Vacuum assisted closure appeared to be an effective method to manage complex diabetic wounds requiring sterile wound environment.