Benefits of Negative Pressure Wound Therapy After Surgery

Poor postoperative wound healing is a common complication in surgical patients. As an innovative technology, negative pressure wound therapy has demonstrated significant advantages in clinical applications in recent years. This treatment method uses a closed negative pressure suction device to create an ideal healing environment for wounds.

How does negative pressure therapy promote wound healing?

Negative pressure therapy promotes wound healing through multiple synergistic mechanisms. Continuous negative pressure suction effectively removes wound exudate, reduces tissue edema, and improves local blood circulation. The negative pressure environment brings wound edges closer together, reducing wound area and stimulating the growth of granulation tissue. Furthermore, the enclosed treatment environment reduces the risk of external bacterial invasion and provides a physical barrier to the wound. During treatment, negative pressure also mechanically stretches cells, promoting cell proliferation and angiogenesis.

What types of wounds are suitable for negative pressure therapy?

Acute trauma, such as open fractures with associated soft tissue damage and degloving injuries, is typically indicated. It is also effective for postoperative wound dehiscence or infection, particularly sternal and abdominal wound dehiscence. It is also suitable for chronic wounds, including pressure injuries, diabetic foot ulcers, and venous ulcers. Negative pressure therapy during skin graft or flap fixation can improve survival rates. It may also be considered for some superficial burns after medical evaluation.

What are the advantages compared with traditional dressing change methods?

The frequency of dressing changes has been reduced from several times a day to every 2-3 days, significantly reducing the nursing workload. Continuous drainage keeps wounds clean and significantly reduces the incidence of infection. Clinical observations have shown that negative pressure therapy can accelerate the growth of granulation tissue and shorten wound healing time. Patients experience significant pain relief and improved comfort. The enclosed environment reduces odor and improves patients' quality of life. In the long run, although the cost of a single treatment is higher, the shortened overall treatment cycle may reduce total costs.

What should I pay attention to during the treatment?

Before treatment, thoroughly clean the wound to remove necrotic tissue and foreign matter. Choose an appropriate dressing size and shape based on the wound's condition, ensuring adequate contact with the wound surface. Adjust the appropriate negative pressure, typically maintaining it between -80 and -120 mmHg. Regularly monitor the properties and volume of drainage fluid to detect any abnormalities. Protect the skin around the wound to prevent tension blisters. Ensure the device is properly secured during patient activity to prevent tubing from becoming dislodged.

In what situations is negative pressure therapy not suitable?

Negative pressure therapy is not suitable for all wounds. It is contraindicated in wounds with active bleeding or a tendency to bleed. It is not recommended for wounds with malignant tumors. Caution should be exercised in wounds with untreated osteomyelitis or fistulas leading to body cavities. Direct dressings should not be applied to exposed blood vessels or organ surfaces. It is also not suitable for patients with allergies to the dressing material.

How to evaluate the effectiveness of negative pressure therapy?

Treatment effectiveness requires comprehensive evaluation using multiple indicators. The degree of wound reduction is a straightforward criterion. Granulation tissue growth reflects the progress of tissue repair. A gradual decrease in exudate volume indicates controlled inflammation. A negative bacterial culture indicates effective control of infection. A decrease in the patient's pain score indicates symptom improvement. The ultimate goal is complete wound healing or creating favorable conditions for subsequent surgery.

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Editor: kiki Jia