Negative Pressure Wound Therapy (NPWT)

Understanding Negative Pressure Wound Therapy

In situations where wounds are too complex to heal on their own, NPWT can accelerate healing time while reducing time spent in the hospital.

NPWT uses a sealed dressing attached to a gentle vacuum pump to promote healing. The pump helps remove excess fluid from the wound, pulls the edges of the wound together and promotes regrowth of healthy tissue.

NPWT is a portable device that allows you to heal at home. Depending on the severity of your wound and doctor’s guidance, most patients are able to resume to their typical routine while recovering.

Who is the Right Candidate for Negative Pressure Wound Therapy?

NPWT is an effective wound treatment option for individuals with non-healing wounds, in addition to:

Vascular Wounds:

• Diabetic foot ulcers
• Pressure ulcers
• Venous leg ulcers

Traumatic Wounds:

• Open fractures
• Burns

Surgical Wounds:

• C-section infections
• Skin grafts or flaps

Based on your wound type and unique preferences, your doctor will determine if NPWT is a good fit for your medical condition.

What are the Benefits of Negative Pressure Wound Therapy?

NPWT has several advantages over conventional wound therapy, including:

• Reduced hospital stay
• Accelerated wound healing
• Reduced infection rates
• Increased independencies in daily living while healing

What to Expect with Negative Pressure Wound Therapy

We recognize that starting a new treatment may take some getting used to. That is why The IU Health Home Care Negative Pressure Wound Therapy team is here to support you.

Throughout your wound healing journey, we work closely with your doctor to offer patient-centered care that is accessible and convenient. We will be by your side from device placement and throughout your personalized treatment plan.

As you adjust to your treatment, you can expect the following:

• Going on treatment: The first time your doctor turns your pump on, you may experience a slight pulling sensation that may feel uncomfortable, but should not be painful. If at any point you experience pain, please contact your home nursing agency or wound care center immediately.
• Getting used to treatment: As the pump runs, the dressing will be firm to the touch. If at any point the dressing feels loose, check to see if there is a kink in the tubing and that the device is turned on.
• Dressing changes: To maximize your healing process and ensure your wound remains sanitary, your dressing will be changed two to three times per week, depending on wound type, position, drainage amount and guidance from your provider. These dressing changes most often occur at a local wound care center or through a home health nursing agency.
• Returning to your routine: Your device is portable so you can move around. Depending on the location of your wound and guidance from your care team, most patients can resume daily activities following device placement.

Caring for you is our priority. If you have any questions or concerns, please contact the IU Health Home Care Negative Pressure Wound Therapy team at 317.962.5316.