Negative Pressure Wound Therapy After Intestinal Anastomosis: A Risk Factor Analysis for Dehiscence.

INTRODUCTION: Negative pressure wound therapy (NPWT) is part of the temporary abdominal closure in the treatment of patients with traumatic, inflammatory, or vascular disease. However, the use of NPWT when performing an intestinal anastomosis has been controversial. This study aimed to describe the patients managed with NPWT therapy and identify the risk factors for anastomotic dehiscence when intestinal anastomosis was performed. METHODS: A single-center cohort study with prospectively collected databases was performed. Patients who required NPWT therapy from January 2014 to December 2018 were included. Patients were stratified according to the performance of intestinal anastomosis and according to the presence of dehiscence. Bivariate and multivariate analyses were performed for anastomotic dehiscence and mortality. RESULTS: A total of 97 patients were included. Median age was 52 y old [interquartile range 24.5-70]. Male patients corresponded to 75.6% (n = 34) of the population. Delayed fascial closure was performed in 80% (n = 36). The risk of anastomotic dehiscence was higher in females (odds ratio (OR) 11.52 [confidence interval (CI) 1.29-97.85], P = 0.030), delayed fascial closure (OR 18.18 [CI 2.02-163.5], P = 0.010) and use of vasopressors (OR 12.04 [CI 1.22-118.47], P = 0.033). NPWT pressures >110 mmHg were evidenced in the dehiscence group with statistically significant value (OR 1.2 [0.99-2.26] p 0.04) CONCLUSIONS: There is still controversy in the use of NPWT when performing intestinal anastomosis. According to our data, the risk of dehiscence is higher in females, delayed fascial closure, use of vasopressors, and NPWT pressures >110 MMHG.

Wound vacuum-assisted closure temporization after tumor resection of soft tissue sarcomas-A cost analysis in a propensity-score matched population.

BACKGROUND: Vacuum-assisted closure (VAC) temporization is a technique associated with high local control rates used in myxofibrosarcoma. We sought to compare the costs and postoperative outcomes of VAC temporization and single-stage (SS) excision/reconstruction. METHODS: We conducted a retrospective analysis of patients with myxofibrosarcoma surgically treated at our institution between 2000 and 2022. Variables of interest included total, direct, and indirect costs for initial episode of care, 90 days and 1 year after initial admission, and postoperative outcomes. Costs were compared between the VAC temporization and SS groups. RESULTS: After matching, 13 patients in the SS group and 23 in the VAC group were analyzed. We found no difference in median and mean total inpatient costs, between the VAC temporization and SS group. While total 90-day and 1-year costs were higher in the VAC group compared to the SS group, mean costs were similar. There were no differences in postoperative complications between groups. A subanalysis of the entire cohort (n = 139) revealed lower local recurrence and overall death rates in the VAC temporization group. CONCLUSION: VAC temporization had similar inpatient costs and postoperative outcomes to SS excision/reconstruction. While median 90-day and 1-year costs were higher in the VAC group, mean costs did not differ.

Association of negative pressure wound therapy and surgical site infections in patients undergoing cytoreductive surgery: An entropy balanced analysis.

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES: Surgical site infections (SSIs) after cytoreductive surgery (CRS) ± hyperthermic intraperitoneal chemotherapy (HIPEC) are a major cause of potentially avoidable morbidity. We explored the association of negative pressure wound therapy (NPWT) with SSI in patients undergoing CRS/HIPEC. METHODS: Retrospective analysis of consecutive patients undergoing CRS/HIPEC for non-gynecologic cancers. Exposure was the receipt of NPWT versus traditional skin closure. Primary outcome was SSI within 90 days of surgery. We performed multivariable logistic regression (before and after entropy balancing) to evaluate the association of exposure with outcomes. RESULTS: A total of 251 patients were included, of which 43 (17%) received NPWT and 26 (10.4%) developed SSIs. Baseline demographics and clinicopathologic characteristics were similar between the two groups with some exceptions: Patients who received NPWT had a higher Peritoneal Carcinomatosis Index (median 19 vs. 11, p = 0.002) and operative time (10 vs. 8.2 h, p = 0.003) but were less likely to undergo HIPEC (84% vs. 95%, p < 0.05). After entropy balancing, on multivariable logistic regression, NPWT was not associated with 90-day SSI (odds ratio = 0.90; 95% confidence interval = 0.21-3.80; p = 0.89). CONCLUSION: NPWT was not associated with a reduction in SSIs. These findings prompt a reevaluation of the routine use of NPWT in CRS/HIPEC.

Continuous negative-pressure wound therapy improves the survival rate of skin grafts and shortens the time required for skin graft survival.

BACKGROUND: The effectiveness of negative-pressure wound therapy (NPWT) in skin graft fixation has been demonstrated in several clinical studies. However, in vitro and in vivo studies on skin graft fixation with NPWT have been scarce. In this in vivo study, we aimed to determine whether NPWT fixation enhances skin graft survival and how it contributes to improving skin graft survival biologically. MATERIALS AND METHODS: We harvested skin from the bilateral abdominal wall of 88 mice after anesthetizing them. Full-thickness skin grafts (FTSGs) were performed on contralateral harvest sites, and grafts were fixed using NPWT (continuous and intermittent modes), conventional compression methods, and wrapping with polyurethane foam as a control group. On days 5 and 10 of grafting, the survival rates of the FTSGs were evaluated. Immunohistopathological analysis and measurement of the expression levels of vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF), basic fibroblast growth factor (FGF-2), and epidermal growth factor (EGF) were performed. RESULTS: The survival rates of FTSG in the continuous NPWT group were significantly higher than those in the other groups. The number of capillaries in the dermis was significantly higher in the continuous NPWT group than in the other groups. In the wound bed, VEGF levels were significantly higher in both NPWT groups than in the other groups. CONCLUSION: Continuous NPWT increases the survival rate of FTSGs and shortens the duration of skin graft survival.

Negative Pressure Wound Therapy: Challenges, Novel Techniques, and Future Perspectives.

Significance: Negative pressure wound therapy (NPWT) has been in practice for decades, proving its utility in many applications, ranging from acutely infected wounds to complex combat wounds and skin grafting. It has been routinely demonstrated that NPWT has superior wound healing outcomes compared with previous standard-of-care therapies. However, the technique involves some challenges related to each of the components that comprise the therapy. The purpose of this article is to highlight the challenges, introduce the recent advancements, and discuss about the future directions in NPWT systems. Recent Advances: New techniques and materials have been developed to improve the currently used NPWT systems with promising results when utilized with appropriate indications. Many advancements have been introduced in modes of negative pressure delivery, pumps, interface dressings, adhesive dressings, and tubing technology. Critical Issues: An optimal NPWT system would avoid the common problems such as failure to deliver negative pressure due to loss of an airtight seal or tissue ingrowth into the interface dressing causing painful dressing changes and bleeding. Other challenges include infection control and patient pain and discomfort that may contribute to noncompliance. Future Directions: Many studies have been performed to evaluate the optimal combination of settings and components in various wounds; however, there is still no clear "best" answer for many specific patient-wound scenarios. Novel and emerging tissue engineering and regenerative medicine approaches could potentially be utilized in the future NPWT systems and thus, this review will discuss some novel ideas for future considerations.

Treatment Patterns and Outcomes of Anastomotic Leakage after Esophagectomy for Esophageal Cancer.

Background: Anastomotic leakage (AL) following esophagectomy represents a serious complication that often results in prolonged hospitalization and necessitates repeated interventions, including nothing-by-mouth (NPO) restriction, endoscopic vacuum therapy (EVT), or surgical repair. In this study, we evaluated the patterns and outcomes of AL treatment. Methods: We retrospectively reviewed the medical records of patients who underwent esophagectomy for esophageal cancer at a single center between 2003 and 2020. Of 3,096 examined cases, 181 patients (5.8%) with AL were included in the study: 114 patients (63%) with cervical anastomosis (CA) and 67 (37%) with intrathoracic anastomosis (TA). Results: The incidence of AL was 11.9% in the CA and 3.2% in the TA group (p<0.001). Among patients with CA who developed AL, 87 (76.3%) were managed with NPO, 15 (13.2%) with EVT, and 12 (10.5%) with surgical repair. Over 90% of patients with cervical AL resumed an oral diet by the time of discharge, regardless of treatment method. Among patients with TA and AL, 36 (53.7%) received NPO, 25 (37.7%) underwent EVT, and 6 (9%) required surgery. Of these, 34 patients who were managed with NPO and 19 with EVT could resume an oral diet. However, only 2 patients who underwent surgery resumed an oral diet, and 2 patients required additional EVT. Conclusion: Although patients with CA displayed a higher incidence of AL, their rate of successful oral intake exceeded that of those with TA, regardless of treatment method. Among patients exhibiting AL with TA, EVT was more commonly employed than in CA cases, and it appears effective.

Evaluation of Clinical Outcomes of Negative-Pressure Wound Therapy in Gustilo-Anderson Type IIIA/IIIB Open Fractures of Extremities.

Background Open fractures are common and serious injuries that primarily affect young males. Fracture management has improved in the last decade. However, infections with their complications are still a concern, especially in open fractures for primary closure of the injured area. A newer technique called vacuum-assisted therapy has become a therapy of choice for many orthopedic surgeons. This study aimed to determine whether vacuum-assisted closure reduces the duration of wound healing and the frequency of infections after fixation of Gustilo-Anderson Type IIIA/IIIB fractures of the extremities. Methodology An observational analytical study was conducted among 34 patients with Gustilo-Anderson Type IIIA/IIIB fractures of the limbs who presented to the Department of Orthopaedics, R. L. Jalappa Hospital, Kolar, from December 2019 to July 2021. Negative-pressure wound therapy was employed for wound closure after fixation of fractures. Patients were followed up for one month. Results The mean age of the patients was 37.06 ± 10.340 years. The prevalence of infection before vacuum-assisted closure dressing was 80.6%, and the prevalence of infection after vacuum-assisted closure dressing was 19.4%. The difference in proportion before versus after the intervention was statistically significant (p < 0.001) according to the McNemar Test. Hence, vacuum-assisted closure dressing decreased the rate of infection. The mean dimension of the wound before vacuum-assisted closure therapy was 66.05 cm2 and the mean dimension of the wound after vacuum-assisted closure therapy was 27.97 cm2. The difference in the mean before and after the intervention was statistically significant according to the paired t-test (p < 0.001). Hence, vacuum-assisted closure dressing helped decrease the wound size which was proven statistically. Conclusions Vacuum-assisted closure is a viable and beneficial treatment option for complicated fractures with large soft-tissue abnormalities.

Negative Pressure Wound Therapy in Pharyngocutaneous Fistula.

Pharyngocutaneous fistula (PCF) is an abnormal connection between the pharynx and skin that can occur after laryngectomy surgery. It can have a significant negative impact on patient recovery, delaying wound healing, requiring prolonged nil-per-oral (NPO) status, and reducing quality of life. Traditionally, the management of PCF has relied on conservative measures or surgical intervention. However, negative pressure wound therapy (NPWT) offers a promising alternative approach. This case study involves three patients who underwent laryngectomy and developed postoperative PCF. All patients received NPWT with a modified suction catheter and low negative pressure (20-40 mmHg). With NPWT, all patients achieved complete wound closure, with healing times ranging from two weeks to six weeks. This suggests that NPWT may significantly accelerate PCF healing compared to traditional methods. However, maintaining an airtight dressing on the neck region can be challenging. This study highlights the potential of NPWT for faster PCF closure after laryngectomy. Further research is needed to optimize NPWT application techniques, explore the impact on long-term outcomes, and establish guidelines for broader clinical use.

Vacuum-assisted closure for chest wall reconstruction infection caused by Streptococcus mitis after surgery of lung cancer: a case report.

BACKGROUND: Among a cohort of patients who underwent chest wall resection and reconstruction by rigid prosthesis, 6% required removal of the prosthesis, and in 80% of these cases the indication for prosthesis removal was infection. Although artificial prosthesis removal is the primary approach in such cases of infection, the usefulness of vacuum-assisted closure (VAC) has also been reported. CASE PRESENTATION: A 64-year-old man with diabetes mellitus underwent right middle and lower lobectomy with chest wall (3rd to 5th rib) resection and lymph node dissection because of lung squamous cell carcinoma. The chest wall defect was reconstructed by an expanded polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE) sheet. Three months after surgery, the patient developed an abscess in the chest wall around the PTFE sheet. We performed debridement and switched to VAC therapy 2 weeks after starting continuous drainage of the abscess in the chest wall. The space around the PTFE sheet gradually decreased, and formation of wound granulation progressed. We performed wound closure 6 weeks after starting VAC therapy, and the patient was discharged 67 days after hospitalization. CONCLUSIONS: We experienced a case of chest wall reconstruction infection after surgery for non-small cell lung cancer that was successfully treated by VAC therapy without removal of the prosthesis. Although removal of an infectious artificial prosthesis can be avoided by application of VAC therapy, perioperative management to prevent surgical site infection is considered essential.

Clinical efficacy of endovascular revascularization combined with vacuum-assisted closure for the treatment of diabetic foot.

BACKGROUND: The diabetic foot is a common cause of disability and death, and comorbid foot infections usually lead to prolonged hospitalization, high healthcare costs, and a significant increase in amputation rates. And most diabetic foot trauma is complicated by lower extremity arteriopathy, which becomes an independent risk factor for major amputation in diabetic foot patients. AIM: To establish the efficacy and safety of endovascular revascularization (ER) combined with vacuum-assisted closure (VAC) for the treatment of diabetic foot. METHODS: Clinical data were collected from 40 patients with diabetic foot admitted to the Second Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University from April 2018 to April 2022. Diabetic foot lesions were graded according to Wagner's classification, and blood flow to the lower extremity was evaluated using the ankle-brachial index test and computerized tomography angiography of the lower extremity arteries. Continuous subcutaneous insulin infusion pumps were used to achieve glycemic control. Lower limb revascularization was facilitated by percutaneous tran-sluminal balloon angioplasty (BA) or stenting. Wounds were cleaned by nibbling debridement. Wound granulation tissue growth was induced by VAC, and wound repair was performed by skin grafting or skin flap transplantation. RESULTS: Of the 35 cases treated with lower limb revascularization, 34 were successful with a revascularization success rate of 97%. Of these, 6 cases underwent stenting after BA of the superficial femoral artery, and 1 received popliteal artery stent implantation. In the 25 cases treated with infrapopliteal artery revascularization, 39 arteries were reconstructed, 7 of which were treated by drug-coated BA and the remaining 32 with plain old BA. VAC was performed in 32 wounds. Twenty-four cases of skin grafting and 2 cases of skin flap transplantation were performed. Two patients underwent major amputations, whereas 17 had minor amputations, accounting for a success limb salvage rate of 95%. CONCLUSION: ER in combination with VAC is a safe and effective treatment for diabetic foot that can significantly improve limb salvage rates. The use of VAC after ER simplifies and facilitates wound repair.

Pulling instead of pushing: A case report of gastrostomy-assisted pull technique as an alternative method for endoluminal sponge placement in EVAC therapy.

Endoscopic vacuum-assisted therapy offers an easier and safer alternative to thoracic surgery, self-expanding stents, or esophageal clips and has been shown to be a promising technique for management of pediatric esophageal perforations. In this report, we present a novel application of a percutaneous endoscopic gastrostomy-assisted pull technique, wherein a preexisting gastrostomy is reaccessed to allow safe placement of the vacuum sponge with a more comfortable and effective endoscopic vacuum-assisted closure therapy compared to transnasal or transoral options. A 7-year-old male with a history of type C esophageal atresia with distal tracheoesophageal fistula complicated by leak and refractory esophageal stricture, severe tracheomalacia, and prior esophageal stricture resection presented for posterior tracheoplasty and tracheopexy complicated by esophageal perforation. A preexisting gastrostomy site was re-accessed to allow for a novel approach for endoluminal sponge placement in endoscopic vacuum-assisted closure (EVAC) therapy by gastrostomy-assisted pull technique. The patient had appropriate healing without further leak 1 month after repair. This case highlights the use of EVAC as a minimally invasive option for repair of esophageal perforation using a pull-through method at the percutaneous endoscopic gastrostomy tube site as gastric access. This method may improve control of placement and reduce sponge migration, reduce intraluminal distance of sponge placement, and reduce morbidity by avoiding thoracotomy.

Role of Negative Suction Therapy and Platelet-Rich Plasma in the Management of Delayed Post-operative Wound Healing: A Case Report.

Tibial Pilon fractures are rare yet devastating injuries. To classify these fractures, the Arbeitsgemeinschaft für Osteosynthesefragen (AO) classification system is the most commonly used method. Out of all the different types, type C fractures are the most difficult to manage because the enormous energy involved in creating this type of injury typically severely destroys the soft tissue surrounding the fracture zone. As a result, long-term outcomes are frequently poor, and proper initial primary care is critical. Pilon fractures are injuries that are difficult to manage, considering the poor soft tissue envelope. These injuries often are associated with delayed wound healing and require staged management. Additional methods of treating the soft tissue envelope are currently being investigated and have shown promising results for the future. We share our experience in the management of AO type 43C3 grade I compound distal tibia fibular fracture with post-operative wound dehiscence, successfully managed with vacuum-assisted closure (VAC) and platelet-rich plasma (PRP) therapy.

Assessment of Vacuum-Assisted Closure (VAC) Therapy in Orthopaedic Infections.

Introduction Chronic and infected orthopaedic wounds may result in profound morbidity, amputation, sepsis and even death. It may need prolonged hospitalization and multiple surgical procedures for treatment. Vacuum-assisted dressing (VAD) is a comparatively newer modality for treating chronic non-healing wounds which helps in faster wound healing, decreases the frequency of dressing and reduces hospitalization time. The aim of our study is to evaluate the outcome of vacuum-assisted dressing (VAD) in the management of orthopaedic wounds. Materials and methods A case series including 20 patients with post-traumatic open fracture wounds, post-operative infected wounds and wounds with underlying chronic osteomyelitis were treated with VAD. Wound size was measured pre- and post-debridement and every five days, at the time of dressing change until the wound healed or grafted. The duration of wound healing or wound closure was measured and documented. Results Wound size decreased significantly and healthy granulation tissues were observed in all wounds after the application of vacuum-assisted dressing. Wound size decreased by an average of 22% after debridement and first vacuum-assisted dressing removal. Infection control was achieved in 18 out of 20 patients (90%) who had wounds closed either by secondary closure or by skin grafting. Conclusion We conclude that VAD is an efficient technique in the management of orthopaedic wounds, especially in the management of open fracture wounds but less effective in chronically infected wounds with underlying osteomyelitis.

Cura por vacío (VAC), a propósito de un caso en Atención Primaria / Vacuum assisted closure (VAC), about a case in primary care

El síndrome compartimental agudo requiere de la descompresión quirúrgica, mediante fasciotomía, esta técnica debe ser urgente y será clave para evitar la instauración de graves secuelas. El posterior abordaje de estas heridas de difícil y lenta cicatrización suponen un reto para los profesionales de la salud y un problema para la salud pública debido a los altos costes y elevada morbilidad. La terapia de presión negativa (TPN) o cura por vacío (VAC, "vacuum assisted closure") es un tratamiento no invasivo que consigue la curación de las heridas favoreciendo la vascularización, la aparición del tejido de granulación y eliminación del exceso de exudado[AU]

Acute compartment syndrome requires surgical decompression by fasciotomy, this technique must be urgent and will be key to avoid the establishment of serious sequels. The subsequent approach to these wounds, which are difficult and slow to heal, is a challenge for health professionals and a problem for public health due to high costs and high morbidity. Negative pressure therapy (NPWT) or vacuum assisted closure (VAC) is a non-invasive treatment that achieves wound healing by promoting vascularization, the appearance of granulation tissue and elimination of excess exudate[AU]

A síndrome compartimental aguda requer descompressão cirúrgica, por fasciotomia, esta técnica deve ser urgente e será fundamental para evitar o estabelecimento de sequelas graves. O tratamento subsequente destas feridas difíceis e de cicatrização lenta é um desafio para os profissionais de saúde e um problema desaúde pública devido aos elevados custos e à elevada morbilidade. A terapia por pressão negativa (NPWT) ou o encerramento assistido por vácuo (VAC) é um tratamento não invasivo que permite a cicatrização de feridas através da promoção da vascularização, do aparecimento de tecido de granulação e da remoção do excesso de exsudado[AU]

Comparison between Vacuum-Assisted Closure Technique and Conventional Approach in Patients with Mediastinitis After Isolated Coronary Artery Bypass Graft Surgery

ABSTRACT Introduction: Median sternotomy is the most preferred approach in heart surgery. Post-sternotomy mediastinitis is a catastrophic and potentially life-threatening complication with an incidence rate of 0.15% to 5%, and its overall mortality rate reaches 47%. In this study, we aimed to compare the results of vacuum-assisted closure technique and the conventional methods on the management of mediastinitis following isolated coronary artery bypass graft surgery. Methods: Between February 2001 and July 2013, 32,106 patients who underwent cardiac operations were evaluated retrospectively. One hundred and fourteen patients who developed post-sternotomy mediastinitis were included in this study. The patients were divided into two groups and compared - vacuum-assisted closure group (n=52, 45.6%) and conventional treatment group (n=62, 54.4%). Results: There were no differences between the two groups according to the patients' characteristics, surgical data, and mediastinal cultures. However, we found that total treatment duration for post-sternotomy mediastinitis, time interval from diagnosis to negative culture, hospitalization time, and in-hospital mortality were statistically significantly lower in the vacuum-assisted closure group than in the conventional treatment group (P<0.001, P<0.001, P<0.001, and P=0.03, respectively). Conclusion: This study demonstrates that the vacuum-assisted closure technique improves the medical outcome of patients with post-sternotomy mediastinitis compared with the conventional treatment. The vacuum-assisted closure is a safe and more effective treatment modality for patients with post-sternotomy mediastinitis after cardiac surgery with reasonable morbidity and mortality.

Continuous peritoneal lavage with vacuum peritoneostomy: an experimental study

OBJECTIVE: Despite advances in diffuse peritonitis treatment protocols, some cases develop unfavorably. With the advent of vacuum therapy, the use of laparostomy to treat peritonitis has gained traction. Another treatment modality is continuous peritoneal lavage. However, maintaining this technique is difficult and has been associated with controversial results. We propose a new model of continuous peritoneal lavage that takes advantage of the features and benefits of vacuum laparostomy. METHOD: Pigs (Landrace and Large White) under general anesthesia were submitted to laparostomy through which a multiperforated tube was placed along each flank and exteriorized in the left and lower right quadrants. A vacuum dressing was applied, and intermittent negative pressure was maintained. Peritoneal dialysis solution (PDS) was then infused through the tubes for 36 hours. The stability of peritoneostomy with intermittent infusion of fluids, the system resistance to obstruction and leakage, water balance, hemodynamic and biochemical parameters were evaluated. Fluid disposition in the abdominal cavity was analyzed through CT. RESULTS: Even when negative pressure was not applied, the dressing maintained the integrity of the system, and there were no leaks or blockage of the catheters during the procedure. The aspirated volume by vacuum laparostomy was similar to the infused volume (9073.5±1496.35 mL versus 10165±235.73 mL, p=0.25), and there were no major changes in hemodynamic or biochemical analysis. According to CT images, 60 ml/kg PDS was sufficient to occupy all intra-abdominal spaces. CONCLUSION: Continuous peritoneal lavage with negative pressure proved to be technically possible and may be an option in the treatment of diffuse peritonitis.

Fascitis necrotizante perineal: Gangrena de Fournier / Perineal necrotizing fasciitis: Fournier's gangrene

La gangrena de Fournier o fascitis necrotizante perineal es una entidad infecciosa que afecta las fascias perineales y/o sus dependencias. Es prevalente en hombres de la 5ta o 6tadécada de su vida, y es más común en diabéticos, obesos, enolistas o inmunodeprimidos. El sostén metabólico, la antibioticoterapia, eldebridamiento de tejidos necróticos y la reparación de tejidos son los pilares del tratamiento. Reporte de casos: En el presente artículo presentamos unarevisión bibliográfica de esta enfermedad, y presentamos 3 casos dediferente resolución en nuestro hospital, a modo de ejemplo, con susrespectivos registros fotográficos. Discusión: La fascitis necrotizante perineal es una grave entidad infecciosa que requiere diagnóstico temprano, tratamiento oportuno multidisciplinario y reconstrucción de tejidos según el caso, para lo cual existen varias opciones...

Fournier's gangrene or perineal necrotizing fasciitis is an infectious entity affecting perineal fascias and / or its dependencies. It is more prevalent in men in the 5th or 6thdecade of life and is more common in diabetics, obese, alcoholics or immunodeppressed. Metabolic support, antibiotic therapy, debridement of necrotic tissue and tissue repair arethekey of treatment. Cases Report: In this article we present a literature review of the disease and present 3 cases of different resolution in ourhospital, as examples, with their photographic records. Discussion: The perineal necrotizing fasciitis is aseriousinfectious entity that requires early diagnosis, early multidisciplinary treatment and tissue reconstruction according to case, for which there are several options...

Tratamiento de úlcera por presión grado IV con cierre asistido por vacío / Vaccum-Assisted IV-Degree Pressure Sore Treatment

Las úlceras por presión son lesiones producidas por la tensión que se sufre al permanecer largos períodos sobre la piel en una sola posición, este tipo de heridas representa un importante problema asistencial por el impacto sobre la salud y la calidad de vida. La prevención y tratamiento de estas úlceras involucra al personal de enfermería, médicos y cirujanos, así como familiares y principalmente al paciente para su cooperación durante su recuperación. Actualmente, para el tratamiento de las úlceras grado III y IV se utiliza el cierre asistido por vacío el cual es un sistema que favorece la cicatrización de las heridas. Este artículo describe el caso de un paciente que presenta una úlcera por presión Grado IV, permanece con sistema VAC durante 12 semanas hasta la programación para cierre quirúrgico, el cual se decide al encontrarse en condiciones clínicas favorables. La terapia asistida por vacío ha mostrado su eficacia permitiendo acelerar el proceso de formación de tejido de granulación y disminuir en forma importante el tamaño de la lesión, además de convertirse en una herida cerrada y controlada evita la presencia de infección, permitió egresar tempranamente al paciente ya que se utilizó un sistema portátil con lo que se logró que regresara a sus actividades cotidianas.

The ulcers by pressure are injuries produced by tension on the skin remaining long periods in a single position; this wounds represents an important problem by the impact on the health and the quality of life. The prevention and treatment of these ulcers involve nurses, doctors and surgeons, family and the patient's cooperation during its recovery. At the moment, for the treatment of the ulcers degree III and IV the Vacuum Assisted Closure (VAC) is used like a system that favors the healing of the wounds. This article describes the case of a patient who had an ulcer by pressure degree IV, with system VAC, during 12 weeks until before that the surgical closing, when he was in favorable clinical conditions. The VAC show its effectiveness accelerating the process of granulation, with important diminish the size of the injury, besides to close the wound, its control and avoid infection, allowed to withdraw early to the patient since a portable system was used with which it was obtained that it returned to his daily activities.

Cierre asistido con presión negativa VAC, en el tratamiento de esternotomía infectada: primer caso en Latinoamérica / Vacuum assisted closure (VAC), in the treatment of infected sternotomy: first case in Latinamerica

Una nueva técnica utilizando el cierre asistido con vacío o presión negativa (VAC, por sus siglas en inglés) se utilizó exitosamente en un paciente masculino de 57 años, con una herida de esternotomía dehiscente e infectada. Posterior a su desbridamiento y drenaje de absceso, el tratamiento regular con gasa iodoformada que utilizó por 10 días, fue sustituido con la aplicación de presión negativa con succión controlada durante 7 días. Esta novedosa técnica, para el cierre deheridas, utilizada por primera vez en Latinoamérica, en este tipo de lesión, hizo posible reducir el tiempo de cicatrización y los costos hospitalarios inherentes a este tipo de complicación.

A new technique using vacuum assisted closure (VAC) was succesfully applied to a 57 year old, male patient, with a dehisced infected sternotomy wound. After debridment and abscess drainage, a standard treatment with iodorform gauze strip was applied during 10 days, then it was substituted with by the application of negative pressure by controlled suction through a porous derssing, during 7 days. This novel technique, the first time applied in Latinamerica in this kind of lesion, has made possible to reduce healing time and hospital costs.