101 VAC Therapy Versus Conventional Therapy in Acute and Chronic Wounds

Abstract

Introduction: Vacuum therapy is a new concept in wound treatment. Animal studies have shown good results in chronic and acute wounds. In clinical practice we have used the system for many wounds with very promising results. However there are few randomized clinical trials that prove the efficacy of the system. Patients and methods: In 2002 we have started a randomized prospective clinical trial to compare the results of Vacuum Assisted Closure versus our wound management protocol with mainly foam dressings and alginates. In this study we have included acute and chronic wounds. The wounds were assessed 3 times a week by 3 researchers (a medical doctor and 2 nurses). We looked at the wound healing, described in terms of color, smell, temperature and aspect of the wound. The size and depth of the wound was recorded and photographs were taken. Once a week we did a swab of the wound. Besides the effect on wound healing we also looked at the time that was needed for dressing changes, the benefits for the patient and the nurses and the costs of the therapy. Results: At this moment we have treated 35 patients. The preliminary results will be presented at the meeting.With this study as an example we will also illustrate some of the problems that can be encountered when designing a clinical trial in wound healing.