Effectiveness of topical negative pressure/closed incision management in the prevention of post-surgical wound complications: a systematic review protocol

Abstract

Review question/objective The aim of this review is to identify the effectiveness of topical negative pressure in the prevention of post-surgical wound complications. More specifically, the objective is to identify: The effectiveness of topical negative pressure in the prevention of post-surgical site infections, wound dehiscence, wound breakdown and/or wound complications in adults compared to other methods that assisting wound healing. Inclusion criteria Types of participants This review will consider studies that include male and female adults and children who have had TNP applied to their surgical wound following a surgical procedure in one these areas, but not confined to: trauma, cardiothoracic, orthopedic, general, vascular or obstetric surgery. Types of intervention This review will consider studies that evaluate the use of TNP directly over an incision, following any surgical procedure. Types of comparator The comparator will be the standard form of care used by the clinician in the absence of TNP (other dressings such as foams, silicone, gauze or hydrocolloids). Types of outcomes This review will consider studies that include, but are not restricted to the following outcome measures: Healing wound parameters, e.g. time, wound size, exudate levels Surgical site infections – superficial and deep Surgical wound dehiscence Wound pain Wound seroma Length of hospital stay