Utilization of a Novel Negative Pressure Platform Wound Dressing on Surgical Incisions: A Case Series

BACKGROUND: Closed incision negative pressure therapy (ciNPT) has been shown to improve wound healing for patients at high risk for wound complications. Current devices consist of opaque interface dressings that do not allow ongoing visual evaluation of the surgical incision and utilize a negative pressure of −80 mm Hg to −125 mm Hg. The Negative Pressure Platform Wound Dressing (NP-PWD) was developed to address these aspects. This case series is the first evaluation of the NP-PWD in a clinical setting. METHODS: Patients aged 18–85 undergoing an operation with an anticipated incision and primary closure were screened. Demographics, comorbidities, and operation performed were recorded. Following closure, the incision was measured and photographed before NP-PWD placement. The NP-PWD was removed at the first postoperative check (POC) between postoperative days (PODs) 3–5. Subjects were followed until PODs 9–14. POCs consisted of incision assessment, measurement, photography, and adverse event monitoring. RESULTS: A total of 8 patients with 10 incisions were included in the study. Five patients were men. Median age was 56 years (IQR 53–74 years). All incisions were intact and without inflammation or infection at all POCs. Three adverse events, including small blisters and interruption of therapy, were noted. CONCLUSIONS: This case series reports that patients tolerated the NP-PWD on closed surgical incisions well and that all incisions were intact without evidence of inflammation or infection after 2 weeks of follow-up. Future controlled, clinical studies should further examine the safety and efficacy of the use of the NP-PWD.