Negative-Pressure Wound Therapy

Negative-pressure wound therapy, also known as vacuum-assisted closure, is a therapeutic technique using a suction pump, tubing and a dressing to remove excess wound exudate and promote healing in acute or chronic wounds and second- and third-degree burns. Used in wound management since the 1990s, it is often recommended for dehisced or closed surgical wounds, open abdominal wounds, open fractures, pressure injuries, diabetic foot ulcers, venous insufficiency ulcers, certain skin grafts, burns and sternal wounds, and it may also be considered after a clean surgery in a person who is obese.