Frequently Asked Question

Frequently Asked Question

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Negative Pressure Wound Therapy (NPWT) is an advanced and adaptable modality designed to optimize wound healing. This system applies sub-atmospheric pressure to the wound bed, effectively reducing inflammatory exudate and promoting the formation of granulation tissue. By creating a controlled vacuum environment, NPWT enhances perfusion, decreases tissue edema, and facilitates the removal of infectious materials and cellular debris, thereby accelerating the wound recovery process and improving overall clinical outcomes.

NPWT (Negative Pressure Wound Therapy) is a broad term for any therapy that applies negative pressure to wounds to promote healing by reducing exudate, enhancing perfusion, and promoting granulation tissue formation. VAC (Vacuum Assisted Closure) is a specific branded system within the NPWT category, renowned for its specialized mechanisms, design, and efficacy in wound healing. Similarly, Capture Meditech's SAC (Suction Assisted Closure) NPWT device is another advanced system within the NPWT category that offers unique features such as adjustable pressure settings and a user-friendly interface, designed to optimize wound healing outcomes. Both VAC and SAC devices exemplify the versatility and effectiveness of NPWT in enhancing the wound recovery process across various wound types and care environments.

NPWT is effective via four dominant mechanisms of action:

👉 Macro-deformation: The sub-atmospheric pressure applied to the foam reduces its size by approximately 80%, effectively shrinking the wound surface area due to its firm attachment to the wound edges. This reduction creates a contributive environment that supports wound healing.

👉 Drainage of fluids: The suction removes extracellular fluid, reducing edema. Additionally, the fluid flow generates shear forces on cells and establishes electric fields, promoting cellular proliferation.

👉 Stabilization of the wound environment: The polyurethane drape's impermeability to proteins and microorganisms helps prevent bacterial colonization. Its limited permeability to gases and water vapor maintains a moist and warm wound environment, facilitating the healing of chronic wounds through normothermic therapy.

👉 Micro-deformation: Mechanical forces from NPWT inhibit apoptosis, upregulate cell signaling molecules, alter gene expression, and stimulate cellular proliferation. These mechanisms collectively accelerate wound healing and improve outcomes.

The ideal pressure for NPWT (Negative Pressure Wound Therapy) typically ranges between 75 mmHg and 125 mmHg. This range is optimal for promoting wound healing while ensuring patient comfort and avoiding tissue damage. Adjustments within this range can be tailored to individual patient factors and wound characteristics to achieve the best therapeutic outcomes.

Low suction pressure (25 mmHg) may decrease fluid drainage from the wound, limit the removal of toxins, and reduce tissue deformation, thereby slowing the rate of granulation tissue formation.

High suction pressure (500 mmHg) can increase mechanical tissue deformation, leading to localized perfusion decrease and reduced formation of granulation tissue.

The Smart Drain (SD) tube and the Canister provided by Capture Meditech are single-use only. They are not meant for reuse even for the same patient. For every new dressing, they are to be changed along with the PU foam to prevent any cross-contamination.

There is no standard number of NPWT sessions required for a wound to heal as it depends on various factors specific to each patient and wound. Key considerations include:

👉 Wound Characteristics: The size, depth, and complexity of the wound influence treatment duration. Larger, deeper, or chronic wounds may require more sessions compared to smaller, acute wounds.

👉 Underlying Conditions: Patients with diabetes, vascular diseases, or immunocompromised states may experience delayed healing, necessitating an extended course of NPWT sessions.

👉 Patient Compliance and Response: Adherence to NPWT instructions and individual patient response are critical. Compliance with dressing changes and activity restrictions impacts treatment outcomes, with healing rates varying among patients.

👉 Wound Progression: Regular monitoring of wound characteristics guides treatment decisions. Improvement in wound size, granulation tissue formation, and reduction in exudate indicate healing progress and inform adjustments to the NPWT regimen.

👉 Multidisciplinary Approach: Collaboration among healthcare professionals ensures comprehensive wound care management. This interdisciplinary approach optimizes NPWT outcomes by tailoring treatment duration to meet individual patient needs and clinical progress.

Prompt detection of vacuum pump failure during NPWT is crucial to maintain uninterrupted wound healing and ensure patient safety. If there are concerns about pump malfunction, promptly notify healthcare providers or technical support for assistance and resolution.

Here are key indicators of pump failure:

  • Loss of Suction: A sudden loss of negative pressure, evident by poor adherence of the wound dressing, indicates potential pump malfunction.
  • Audible Cues: Listen for abnormal sounds like grinding or excessive vibration from the pump, which may signify mechanical issues.
  • Visual Inspection: Check for visible damage, leaks, or signs of wear on the vacuum pump, such as cracks or loose connections.
  • Monitoring System Alerts: Pay attention to error messages or alarms on the device's control panel that indicate pump malfunctions.
  • Power Supply Check: Ensure the pump has a stable power supply to avoid electrical issues that could disrupt its operation.
  • Battery Evaluation: If battery-powered, monitor battery status to prevent operational failures due to low charge or battery issues.
  • Manufacturer Guidelines: Follow manufacturer-recommended troubleshooting steps from the NPWT device manual to address pump failures effectively.

The frequency of changing polyurethane (PU) foam dressings during NPWT varies based on wound type, exudate levels, and healthcare provider guidelines. Typically, PU foam is changed every 2 to 3 days, but Capture Meditech’s foam can last up to 5 days depending on wound characteristics and physician's recommendations. 

Considerations Include:

  • Exudate Levels: Higher exudate production may necessitate more frequent changes to prevent saturation and maintain NPWT effectiveness.
  • Wound Size and Complexity: Larger or complex wounds may require more frequent changes for optimal wound bed preparation and exudate management.
  • Wound Healing Stage: Early treatment stages with higher exudate levels often require more frequent changes to support healing.
  • Healthcare Provider's Assessment: Regular assessment by healthcare providers guides dressing change timing based on wound condition, infection risks, and patient response.
  • Patient Comfort: Adjustments to foam change frequency are made based on patient comfort and tolerance to ensure effective NPWT therapy.