Closed Incision Negative Pressure Wound Therapy Following Pancreaticoduodenectomy for Prevention of Surgical Site Infections in High-risk Patients

Abstract

Introduction: Surgical site infection (SSI) remains one of the most common causes of morbidity after pancreaticoduodenectomy. SSI is associated with fascial dehiscence, readmissions, prolonged length of stay, delayed adjuvant chemotherapy initiation, and negative effects on quality of life. Negative pressure wound therapy devices, also known as incisional vacuum-associated closure devices (iVAC), applied to closed incisions may reduce SSI rates; however, evidence for their use after pancreaticoduodenectomy is limited and has mixed results.