What is a wound VAC (Vacuum-assisted closure)?
A wound VAC is a type of therapy to help wounds heal. During the treatment, the device decreases air pressure on the wound to help the wound heal more quickly. It gently pulls fluid from the wound over time to reduce swelling, and may help clean the wound and remove bacteria. A wound VAC also helps pull the edges of the wound together and can stimulate the growth of new tissue that helps the wound close.
Indications for Negative pressure wound therapy (NPWT)?
Wound types:
- Diabetic foot ulcers
- Pressure injuries
- Surgical wounds
- Grafts and flaps
- Traumatic wounds
- Partial-thickness burns
- Necrotizing fasciitis ActiVAC Therapy System Snap Therapy System
When is NPWT contraindicated?
Necrotic tissue with eschar present, untreated osteomyelitis, fistulas present, malignancy, and exposed blood vessels, nerves, organs.
How can the PT providers at Live in Motion help?
Order wound care supplies, work with 3M/vendor to get VAC and dressings approved and available for patient, weekly dressing changes and monitoring for appropriate healing with emphasis on communication with physician regarding management if other tests of treatments are warranted to enhance healing.
Questions? Please give a call at 701-651-4325 or email at info@liveinmotionpt.com