Vacuum therapy, also known as vacuum-assisted closure (VAC) or negative pressure wound therapy, is a medical technique that involves the application of controlled negative pressure to a wound or an area of the body. The therapy utilizes a specialized device that creates a vacuum environment over the wound, promoting wound healing and tissue regeneration.
The primary purpose of vacuum therapy is to accelerate wound healing and promote the formation of granulation tissue. It can be used to treat a wide range of acute and chronic wounds, including:
1. Pressure Ulcers: Vacuum therapy helps to improve blood flow, remove excess fluid, and stimulate the growth of healthy tissue, which is crucial for the healing of pressure ulcers or bedsores.
2. Diabetic Foot Ulcers: Vacuum therapy can be effective in treating diabetic foot ulcers by removing excess fluid, reducing edema, and promoting the development of healthy granulation tissue.
3. Surgical Wounds: It is commonly used to aid in the healing of surgical wounds, particularly those that are complex, large, or difficult to heal due to factors such as infection, compromised blood supply, or underlying medical conditions.
4. Traumatic Wounds: Vacuum therapy can assist in the healing of traumatic wounds, including abrasions, lacerations, and burns, by promoting wound closure, reducing the risk of infection, and enhancing tissue regeneration.
5. Chronic Wounds: Vacuum therapy can be beneficial for chronic non-healing wounds, such as venous ulcers and arterial ulcers. It helps to improve blood circulation, remove exudate, and facilitate the growth of healthy tissue.
The mechanism of action behind vacuum therapy involves several key benefits:
The negative pressure created by the vacuum device promotes increased blood flow to the wound area, supplying oxygen and nutrients essential for healing.
The vacuum system helps to remove excess wound fluid, known as exudate, which can impede the healing process and increase the risk of infection.
The controlled negative pressure stimulates the development of granulation tissue, which is essential for wound closure and the formation of new, healthy tissue.
Vacuum therapy aids in the reduction of edema and swelling by promoting lymphatic drainage and improving fluid circulation.
The application of a specially designed dressing or foam over the wound provides a protective barrier, preventing contaminants from entering the wound site and minimizing the risk of infection.
It is important to note that vacuum therapy should be administered under the guidance of healthcare professionals who have been trained in its proper application and management. They can assess the appropriateness of vacuum therapy for individual patients and tailor the treatment to their specific needs.
Overall, vacuum therapy offers a promising approach to wound healing by providing a controlled and supportive environment for optimal tissue regeneration. Its effectiveness in promoting wound closure and reducing the risk of complications has made it a valuable option for various wound types and conditions.
The Intelect Vacuum Module allows you to easily extend your Intelect Transport Combo (or any other Advanced Electrotherapy unit) to add vacuum therapy capability. For use by Healthcare Professionals only.
Intelect Vacuum Electrodes come in 3 sizes (30MM, 60MM and 90MM) and are sold in packs of 4. For use with the Intelect Vacuum Model with Cart.
Intelect Vacuum Lead Hoses are replacement hoses for connection to the Intelect Vacuum Therapy Module. One pair of hoses is supplied per channel. Suction electrodes and sponges are sold separately.
Vacuum Sponges From Chattanooga come in sizes 30MM, 60MM and 90MM and are in packs of 4. They are for use with Intelect’s Vacuum Electrode Module with Therapy System Cart.