Negative pressure wound therapy by indigenous method: a decisive and cost-effective approach in management of open wounds

Abstract

Background: The vacuum-assisted closure was pioneered by Dr Louis Argenta and Dr Michael Morykwas in 1993. It is a development from the standard surgical procedure, which uses vacuum-assisted drainage to remove blood or serous fluid from an operation site to provide a drier surgical field and control blood flow. Methods: We carried out a prospective study of 50 patients on the role of negative pressure wound therapy (VAC) by indigenous method for open wounds cases. Study was conducted during the period from November 2013 to May 2015. Details of cases were recorded including history and wound characteristics. Results: In our study the rate of granulation tissue increases significantly after successive application of VAC and no complications occurred following any VAC dressing. VAC dressing also provided the wound ready for SSG or flap rotation early as assessed by wound bed score. In financial terms VAC dressings by indigenous method is comparable to conventional dressings. Conclusions: Vacuum assisted closure dressing was found to be totally safe. Thus, vacuum assisted closure dressing can be considered as a superior option in the management of chronic wounds. Also compliance of patient is good in vacuum assisted closure therapy.