The podiatrists at North Texas Foot & Ankle in Irving are proud to offer Vacuum Assisted Closure for treatment of wounds. The Wound Vacuum Assisted Closure (VAC) device aids wound healing by providing an ultimate environment for an open wound to transition into a closed wound at a more rapid rate. Vacuum-assisted closure can be used on almost all types of wounds including diabetic, vascular, as well as some traumatic wounds, however, the patients who would benefit most from the procedure are those with deep, chronic wounds.
The Wound VAC consists of an evacuation tube which is used to remove wound drainage. This tube is embedded in a polyurethane foam dressing which is applied onto the base of the wound. The foam dressing is then sealed by an occlusive dressing, and the tube is attached to a negative pressure vacuum unit. The application of negative pressure causes the foam to collapse resulting in removal of excess fluids; increased blood flow, decreased bacterial colonization; granulation tissue formation; and wound closure.
Chronic wounds often require months of treatment and sometimes prolonged stays at the hospital and IV antibiotics. Use of the Wound VAC can greatly reduce the length of treatment and/or hospital stay by enhancing wound closure and quickening the patient’s return to normal activities. Faster wound healing results in fewer complications, as well as less discomfort and pain for the patient.
The Wound VAC requires a change of dressing only every 48 hours, as opposed to other treatments of chronic wounds that may require at least two daily dressing changes. Limiting exposure to the wound results in a lower risk of infection. To learn more about the vacuum-assisted closure treatment for wounds, call North Texas Foot & Ankle at 214-574-9255.
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