Negative Pressure Wound Therapy

In vacuum-assisted closure (VAC), a machine creates suction to bring the edges of the wound together.

• A special piece of foam or cotton gauze fits over your wound. This covers and protects the wound. A clear bandage (film dressing) goes several inches beyond the foam or gauze dressing to create a seal for the vacuum.
• A tube connects the foam to a small machine called the therapy unit. The therapy unit creates the suction.
• You use the machine 24 hours a day.

The VAC system may be carried around (portable) or may stay in one place (stationary).

• A home health care worker may come to your home or you may go to your doctor's office a few times a week to have the dressing changed. You may need it changed more often if there is a lot of drainage.
• Your doctor will give you information on what you can and can't do. This depends on where your wound is located. Your activities may be limited during the time you're using vacuum-assisted closure.
• You will be able to take sponge baths. Don't shower or take baths unless your doctor says it is okay.
• Take pain medicines exactly as directed.
  • If the doctor gave you a prescription medicine for pain, take it as prescribed.
  • If you are not taking a prescription pain medicine, ask your doctor if you can take an over-the-counter medicine.
• If your doctor prescribed antibiotics, take them as directed. Do not stop taking them just because you feel better. You need to take the full course of antibiotics.