NEGATIVE PRESSURE DRESSING TO DECREASE THE INCIDENCE OF LEG WOUND COMPLICATIONS AFTER CABG: NURSING PERSPECTIVES FOR PATIENT CARE

Abstract

Leg wound complications after harvesting the greater saphenous vein can occur in up to 28% of patients undergoing coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG) (1,2). Edema and pain often lead to impaired mobility, while infection can result in not only sepsis, but also psychological trauma related to loss of independence and anxiety related to isolation precautions (2,3). This prospective, single-blinded, single centre randomized controlled pilot study examines the incidence of leg wound complications following elective CABG through comparison of a negative pressure dressing (n=23) versus traditional dry gauze (n=23).