Negative pressure wound therapy in modern orthopaedic practice. Issue 1 (January 2018)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Holt, Andrew M.; Fournier, Matthew N.; Beebe, Michael J.
• Is Part Of: Current orthopaedic practice. Volume 29:Issue 1(2018)
• Publication Date: 2018-01
• Subjects: NPWT -- wound care -- resident education -- vacuum therapy -- orthopaedics; Orthopedics -- Periodicals; 616.7005
• DOI: 10.1097/BCO.0000000000000585
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 1940-7041

Abstract

Abstract : Negative pressure wound therapy (NPWT) is commonly used in orthopaedic practice. Biochemical and mechanical factors of NPWT optimize the local wound environment by increasing local angiogenesis, interleukin (IL)-8, and cell division to synergistically promote soft-tissue healing. Applications vary widely in orthopaedics. In trauma patients, it can temporize soft-tissue wounds in open fractures, aid in closure of fasciotomy wounds, and improve incorporation of skin grafts. Incisional vacuum therapy can maintain integrity of wound closure in high-risk patients and anatomic locations. When combined with instillation fluid, NPWT has the potential to treat infected tissue and deep hardware. Complications are avoidable but can include skin breakdown, wound contamination, and hemorrhage. Further research continues to clarify the role of NPWT in orthopaedic surgery.