Negative Pressure Wound Therapy
Negative pressure wound therapy is an advanced treatment that promotes proper healing by removing fluid and infection from wounds. This is achieved by sealing a special dressing over the wound and connecting it to a gentle vacuum pump. At Healing Touch WoundCare, our team of wound care specialists offers advanced and holistic treatments to alleviate discomfort and promote rapid, safe healing. NPWT can accelerate healing and reduce the risk of infection.
How Does the Treatment Work?
Negative pressure wound therapy involves using a special dressing, tubing, a fluid collector, and a small negative pressure device. Our providers will set up and monitor the device, which you will need to wear continuously, except during showers (avoid baths). The device should not be off for more than two hours a day.
Dressings need to be changed 2-3 times per week, which may require visits to our office. At your initial appointment, our providers will estimate how long you'll need the device, although this may change as your body responds to the treatment.
How Is the NPWT Device Used?
To start Negative Pressure Wound Therapy, the device is applied in several steps:
Your provider will place layers of foam dressing around the wound and seal them with a film.
The film has a small opening for a tube, which is connected to a vacuum pump.
The vacuum pump leads to a canister where fluid is collected. The vacuum can operate continuously or intermittently.
Once activated, the vacuum will remove fluid and infection from the wound while gently pulling the wound's edges together.
What Types of Wounds Can This Therapy Treat?
Negative pressure wound therapy is effective for a variety of wounds, including:
Burns
Ulcers
Diabetic ulcers
Chronic wounds
Benefits of Negative Pressure Wound Therapy
Negative pressure wound therapy can help pull fluid and infection from your wound, which can lead to faster recovery. It is also good for wounds that have not healed successfully on their own.
The system also helps achieve this by promoting the growth of new tissue. Antibiotics and saline can also be pushed into the wound to deliver further benefits for those who require them.
Why Choose Healing Touch WoundCare?
The Healing Touch WoundCare team is one of the few practices to offer specialized care for atypical wounds. Our staff can evaluate your wound to determine if it is atypical and provide comprehensive care solutions. We offer a wide range of therapies that can be used independently or in combination.
Our team of highly-trained providers will also teach you how to properly care for your wound at home. This includes demonstrating how to thoroughly clean the wound, protect healthy skin, and change dressings. If you think you may have an atypical wound, call Healing Touch or book an appointment online today.