INTRODUCTION:

It is also known as Vacuum Assisted Closure (V. A. C). The principle behind its use is that it removes exudates and facilitates wound healing and closure in delayed or chronic wound and burns.

PROCEDURE

Application of sub-atmospheric pressure in a controlled environment with an occlusive dressing using foam and a drainage tube which is connected to a canister and then to a vacuum pump. This may applied as intermittent or continuous therapy. Optimal pressure is aminatined at or below negative 125mmhg.

CONTRAINDICATIONS:

1. Malignancy
2. Osteomyelitis (untreated)
3. Non-enteric and unexplored fistulas
4. Slough or necrotic tissue in wound bed
5. Over exposed blood vessel nerve, anastomosis or organs.

EFFECTIVENESS:

It assures increased blood flow to the wound. It, also, removes exudates and thus decreases swelling and infection and wound contracture facilitating wound closure.