If an individual has an unhealing wound, the physicians can use a special treatment. A special treatment is what is known as a wound VAC. VAC is short for Vacuum-Assisted Closure. It is an advanced device which applies a gentle vacuum to facilitate the healing of the wound.
If you or a loved one ever heard something about a wound VAC, you may be worried or perplexed. What is it? What does it do? Is it safe? Today we’ll explain it all in simple terms so that you understand how the wound VAC therapy works and what to expect.
What Is a Wound VAC?
A VAC is an instrument that aids in the healing of a wound through suction (vacuum) through a special dressing.
- The dressing is placed over the wound.
- A tube is connected from the dressing to a small device.
- The device creates gentle suction that draws out infection-producing material and fluid from the wound into a holding container.
Removing infection-producing material and fluid, the VAC creates an ideal environment for the wound to heal faster.
Physicians also call this treatment Negative Pressure Wound Therapy (NPWT).
How Does a Wound VAC Work?
A wound VAC works by:
- Sealing the wound – Gauze or foam dressing is inserted into the wound, and a plastic film sheet is placed over it. This seals the wound to outside air.
- Applying suction – A tube attaches the dressing to a small vacuum pump. The pump sucks out fluid and air.
- Drainage fluid – The sucked-out fluids, blood, and pus are removed from the wound that would otherwise hinder the healing process.
- Improving blood supply – With less swelling, the wound gets more oxygen and nutrients.
- Supporting growth of new tissue – The edges of the wound are pulled together tightly by suction and tissue growth is stimulated.
It is healing faster than an open wound with standard dressings.
When is a Wound VAC Used?
Wound VAC therapy is used by physicians for deep, large, or chronic wounds. Frequent are some of the occurrences as follows:
- After major surgery, especially orthopedic or abdominal.
- Pressure sores (bed sores).
- Diabetic ulcers of the foot.
- Traumatic injury (deep trauma or wounds).
- Burns.
- Infected wound after debridement (removal of infected tissue).
- Skin grafts (for fixation and healing).
If the wound is not small and healing well, then a VAC will generally not be necessary. It is actually only used on complicated ones.
Benefits of Wound VAC
The advantages of a wound VAC are actually quite extensive:
- Healing faster – Heals the wound more quickly than with normal dressings.
- Lower risk of infection – Drainage of fluid and closure of the wound reduces risks of bacteria.
- Less swelling – Swelling and pressure in the wound site are minimized with suction.
- More blood flow – Enhances circulation to the traumatized area.
- Fewer dressing changes – Dressings can be changed only 2–3 times a week compared to daily.
- More comfort – Patients are less painful compared to dressing changes often.
- Heals big wounds – Ideal for wounds that are too complex to handle with normal treatment.
Risks and Side Effects
Like all other methods of medical treatment, wound VAC therapy does carry some risk. They include:
- Bleeding – Suction can cause bleeding if the dressing is near vessels.
- Infection – Infection can result if the dressing is not changed as it should be.
- Skin irritation – Itching or redness can occur because of the adhesive film.
- Pain – Pain occurs for some when suction is applied or on dressing change.
- Machine problems – If the machine ruptures or leaks, the wound will not heal as anticipated.
That is why wound VAC therapy should always be attended to by qualified physicians and nurses.
What You Should Expect When You Are Undergoing Wound VAC Therapy
When you are prescribed a wound VAC, this is what happens usually:
- Dressing is performed – A nurse places foam or gauze in the wound and covers it with a clear sheet.
- Tube is attached – A tube is attached from the dressing to the vacuum pump.
- Equipment is functioning – The pump starts to gently suck fluid from the wound into a bag.
- Ongoing or intermittent suction – The machine is generally operated continuously or on an on-off routine, as ordered by the physician.
- Dressing change – Dressings are generally replaced 2–3 times daily at the hospital or by a home care nurse.
The equipment is lightweight, portable, and typically stored in a bag, so patients can still walk around.
How to Care for a Wound VAC at Home
Certain patients also undergo wound VAC treatment at home. Follow these tips:
- Adhere strictly to nurse instructions on cleaning and care.
- Don’t turn off the machine except if ordered by your doctor.
- Verify the seal – If the clear film peels off, call your nurse.
- Empty the container when it’s full (the nurses will show you).
- Watch for warning signs – Call your doctor if you see redness, swelling, fever, or funky drainage.
- Be active – Walk or change position as often as your doctor advises. It helps the wound heal.
Who Should Not Have a Wound VAC?
Wound VAC isn’t appropriate for everyone. Doctors don’t use it in cases like:
- Untreated bone infection (osteomyelitis).
- Active cancerous wounds.
- Un-irrigated necrotic tissue in the wound.
- Skin fragility or clotting disorders in patients.
Your doctor will examine your wound and decide whether VAC is needed.
Alternatives to Wound VAC
Depending on whether wound VAC is not suitable, doctors may use other treatments like:
- Routine dressing.
- Antibiotic creams.
- Hyperbaric oxygen therapy.
- Skin transplanting.
- Surgery to remove necrotic tissue.
Depending on wound size and type.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long will you need a wound VAC?
It depends on the wound. A few weeks in some and a few months in others.
Is wound VAC painful or uncomfortable?
Our patients tell us that it is not painful in use but can be uncomfortable when changing dressings.
Can I shower with a wound VAC?
Some are water resistant, but otherwise you generally have to cover it up or power down for a bit. Always consult your nurse.
Is wound VAC costly?
Yes, it can be, but most insurance will pay for it if your physician writes the order.
Does wound VAC actually work?
Yes, studies indicate that wound VAC therapy heals the majority of wounds quicker than with regular dressings.
Wound VAC is specialized medical treatment that entails the application of soft suction vacuum to promote healing of hard-to-heal wounds sooner. It removes fluid, prevents infection, and stimulates new tissue development. Even though it can seem scary, it is safe, effective, and well-proven in hospitals and home care.
If your doctor orders wound VAC therapy, remember that it means that your wound has to have some extra help to heal. With good care, frequent follow-ups, and patience, a wound VAC can be a great help to healing.
