Negative pressure wound therapy: An update

PURPOSE: To get the maximum benefit of vacuum-assisted closure (VAC) in the management of acute and chronic wounds without abuse or misuse. METHODS: Fourty one patients were included in the study. Among them, 9 patients had chronic wounds and the rest 32 patients had acute wounds. In acute wounds, 19 patients had co-morbid conditions. Seven patients had gaped wounds, 4 patients had necrotizing fasciitis and 2 patients had enterocutaneous fistula. RESULTS: The hospitalization period varied from 1 to 6 weeks. The follow-up period was up to 6 months. No mortality was recorded during this study. All skin grafts showed complete healing. Necrotizing fasciitis was managed with good outcome. Wounds with enterocutaneous fistula have improved. In chronic wounds, good healing and excellent outcome were obtained. CONCLUSION: The VAC therapy is an essential element for the management of problematic acute and chronic wounds.