Vacuum – assisted closure is a type of therapy that is used to help wound heal. It is also known as wound vac.During treatment the Device decreases air pressure on the wound. It can help wound to heal quicker with minimal bacterial. If the wound fails to heal in a timely manner, negative pressure wound therapy( NPWT) may be used.This system requires a special type of dressings( Black porous foam or the white dense foam ),the vacuum pump,and the tube.The dressing has to seal the wound, the vacuum tube attached to the dressing. One end of the vacuum tube is connected to the foam dressing while the other end is connected to the pump. As soon as it is turned on the pump will gradually reduce the pressure beneath the dressing, drawing away exudate and decreasing swelling ( edema) in the surrounding tissues.
ADVANTAGES OF THIS PROCESS. 1.Promotion of tissue granulation.
2.Decrease bacterial colonization.
3.Increase cell mitosis.
4.Spur migration of cells within the wound.
5. Lowers the pressure in the wound than outside pressure.
6.The dressing is open and porous structure of polyurethane that encourages the Stimulation ,the formation of granulating tissues and the removal of exudate. It is a very good experience to change the woundvac dressing and you withness that it is working well.
Most of the time the woundvac is placed in surgery but are changed every other day by physical therapist or the nurses. ( Monday/ Wednesday/Friday)I love it when nurses are ordered to change the woundvac or patient had a bowel movement and soiled the woundvac. So it got to be changed.
CONTRAINDICATIONS FOR THE USE OF WOUND VAC.
1.Fistula,organs or Cavities- Nonenteric unexplored fistula.
2. Necrotic tissues.
3.Untreated Osteomyelitis.
4.Malignancy of wounds
5.Sensitivity to acrylic adhesive.
6. Known allergy.
Nurses You Move Me 