Optimal use of negative pressure wound therapy in treating pressure ulcers

Abstract

Pressure ulcers (PrUs) are a challenging health concern for both the clinician and the patient. The exact incidence and prevalence of PrUs varies widely among specific clinical populations, from 0.4% to 38% in acute care, from 2.2% to 24% in long-term care and from 0% to 17% in home care. The economic impact of these wounds is impressive with an estimated cost of $11 to $17.2 billion annually in the USA. Guidelines from the National Pressure Ulcer Advisory Panel and European Pressure Ulcer Advisory Panel have provided recommendations for the prevention and treatment of PrUs. Negative pressure wound therapy with reticulated open cell foam (NPWT/ROCF; V.A.C.® Therapy, KCI USA, Inc. San Antonio, TX) has been successfully used for managing PrUs. This review combines expert opinion with scientific evidence to describe the use of NPWT/ROCF in patients with PrUs.