Negative pressure wound therapy: application, indications and is there more we could use it for?
Samantha Bell
Sunday, October 2, 2016
Negative pressure wound therapy (NWPT) is becoming a common tool for wound management in the veterinary practice. This method of management allows a non-invasive but crucially active and closed system to manage complex wounds by exposing the wound bed to sub-atmospheric pressure. This method is also referred to as VAC or vacuum-assisted closure. NPWT works by stimulating granulation tissue formation, reducing interstitial oedema and inflammatory cytokines, and improving circulation, all while maintaining a moist wound environment. NPWT is widely used in humans to aid healing of non-healing wounds, for example debucital ulcers, burns and open fractures. This practise has been introduced into the veterinary practice to create an ideal wound healing environment for veterinary patients.
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