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By Dr. Kuvent, April 29, 2010 12:39 pm

Ulcers and other types of wounds are some of the most common problems that podiatrists deal with in the lower extremity. Part of the reason for that is because there are so many possible causes including diabetic ulcers, pressure ulcers, and blood-flow related ulcers as well as burns, traumatic wounds, and skin grafts or flaps. One unique treatment option that can be used in all of these settings is known as “negative pressure” or “wound vacuum” therapy.

          In short, wound vacuum therapy is an active but non-invasive form of therapy which uses controlled pressure over a wound to promote healing. This principle was actually first developed in 1841 when vacuum bells were applied to different body parts with the idea of drawing blood away from diseased organs! Later in the 1950’s, newer designs were developed and studies were carried out examining healing potential and how the body responded to changes in pressure. The most popular device today received FDA approval in 1995 and was approved by Medicare in 2000.

          There are several popular wound vacuum models in use today and a great deal of quality research has been done supporting their efficacy. The studies have shown that vacuum devices help by creating an ideal healing environment within the wound. They do this by offering protection and support as well as increasing local blood flow, removing excess fluid, decreasing bacteria, and promoting the formation of healthy tissue over the wound. Additionally, wound vacuum devices are shown to improve the success rates of skin grafts and flaps when they are necessary. Of course, vacuum therapy is not indicated in all wounds, and not every patient is a candidate.

          As already noted, there are several different wound vacuum models in use today. Many of the models include a foam dressing with a suction device which is specially applied over the wound. The dressing is then attached by a length of tubing and connectors to the actual battery-powered suction device. This device is usually small and lightweight and can travel easily with patients. It can be programmed to offer the proper amount of negative pressure in order to optimally heal the wound or wounds in question.

          Wound vacuum therapy is just one of many options available for the management of ulcers and other types of wounds. Your podiatrist in Chandler can tell you if this is an appropriate therapy for your condition and then help to manage that therapy effectively. Some wounds require constant suction while others require intermittent suction, and this can all be pre-programmed into the device. Vacuum therapy has proven to be an exceptional cost-saving measure in that it can help augment surgery, reduce the number of dressing changes, speed the transition to less invasive health care settings, and provide a treatment option to patients who are not ready for surgery. If you have questions, feel free to make an appointment today!