Navigating new technologies in negative pressure wound therapy

Abstract

Plastic surgeons and their support staff are tasked with proficient management of a wide variety of complex wounds. Since its introduction, negative pressure wound therapy (NPWT) has increasingly been used within the plastic surgery specialty to improve and simplify wound management. Increased usage of the therapy has prompted the development of a myriad of new NPWT systems. While an expanded product selection allows greater choice to maximize patient outcomes, sound decision-making also requires a clear understanding of the characteristics of various NPWT systems and applications. Wound-specific NPWT systems of varying size are available for low- to moderate-severity wounds, clean closed incisions, and acute abdominal wounds. Wound size and severity, amount of exudate, and patient mobility issues have become important considerations when choosing an NPWT device. The purpose of this article is to familiarize the reader with the latest sophistications in NPWT systems to guide decision making and usage. © 2011 American Society of Plastic Surgical Nurses.