Vacuum wound therapy
vacuum therapy · negative pressure wound therapy · vacuum dressing · VAC dressing
A special sponge is placed on the wound, covered with a film, and connected to a small pump. The pump gently draws off fluid and helps the wound heal.
For large wounds that are slow to heal, after operations, with a diabetic foot, and with pressure sores.
⏱ Duration: a dressing change usually takes 20 to 40 minutes, every 2 to 3 days; treatment lasts from a few days to weeks
Be sure to tell your doctor
How to prepare
- Pain relief. If dressing changes hurt, you can take a painkiller beforehand. Ask your doctor.
- The pump. If treatment is at home, learn how to check the pump and what to do when it alarms.
What to bring
- The pump charger, if treatment is at home
- A list of your medicines
- Your ID
How it goes
- The old dressing is carefully removed
- The wound is cleaned and examined
- The sponge is cut to the shape of the wound and placed in it
- Everything is covered with clear film
- The tube and pump are connected
- The seal is checked to make sure the dressing holds the vacuum
What you'll feel
- When the pump starts, a pulling feeling in the wound
- A dressing change can be unpleasant
- The pump sometimes hums quietly or beeps
Afterwards
- The pump should run all the time. Do not turn it off for long on your own
- Watch the canister: if it is full, call the clinic
- Keep the dressing dry
- Come for dressing changes on schedule
Contact a doctor straight away if
- Blood in the tube or canister: turn off the pump and call your doctor or your local emergency number right away
- The pump beeps and does not hold the vacuum
- Fever, severe pain, bad smell from the wound
Common questions
Can I walk around with the pump?
Usually yes. The pump is small and is carried on a strap or in a bag.
How long will treatment take?
It depends on the wound. The doctor checks healing at every dressing change.