Evaluation of an ultra-lightweight, single-patient-use negative pressure wound therapy system over dermal regeneration template and skin grafts

Abstract

As the use of negative pressure wound therapy (NPWT) over skin grafts has increased, traditional methods of NPWT system reimbursement and application are increasingly being challenged. A simplified method of accessing and operating NPWT in the outpatient setting is needed, particularly in cases where immediate outpatient use of NPWT is optimal. We evaluated use of a new ultra-lightweight, off-the-shelf, disposable, single-patient-use NPWT system (SP-NPWT; V.A.C.Via™ Therapy, KCI USA, Inc., San Antonio, TX) over dermal regeneration template (DRT) and/or skin grafts. SP-NPWT was initiated over a DRT and/or skin graft in 33 patients with 41 graft procedures. Endpoints were recorded and compared to a historical control group of 25 patients with 28 grafts bolstered with traditional rental NPWT (V.A.C.® Therapy, KCI USA, Inc.). Average length of inpatient hospital stay was 0·0 days for the SP-NPWT group and 6·0 days for the control group (P < 0·0001). The average duration of SP-NPWT post-DRT or skin graft was 5·6 days for the SP-NPWT group and 7·0 days for the control (P < 0·0001). Preliminary data suggest that, compared to traditional NPWT, off-the-shelf SP-NPWT may provide a quicker, seamless transition to home, resulting in decreased hospital stay and potential cost savings. © 2012 The Authors. International Wound Journal © 2012 John Wiley & Sons Ltd and Medicalhelplines.com Inc.