The use of negative pressure therapy for the treatment of the defects on extremities due to high-energy trauma

Abstract

Aim: Defects of the extremities due to high-energy trauma are common and it is necessary to repair these defects. Reconstruction is possible with simple surgeries using skin grafts and negative pressure therapy (NPT). In this study, we present our results of the reconstruction of extremity defects caused by high-energy trauma with a simple surgical procedure using NPT. Methods: Patients with soft tissue defects of the upper and lower extremities caused by high energy trauma, who were treated with NPT between November 2009 and June 2015, were included in the study. Results: NPT was performed in 63 patients. The average defect size was 60 cm2. The patients underwent an average of nine sessions. The average length of hospital stay was 26 days. The defects were reconstructed using skin grafts and local flaps in 58 and two patients, respectively. None of the patients required free flaps. Conclusion: Extremity defects occurring due to high energy trauma can be closed by simple surgical techniques using NPT, patients can be protected from the complications of free tissue transfer, and also treatment is possible at much lower costs.