Vacuum-assisted closure (VAC)

Definition

Vacuum-assisted closure (VAC) is a therapeutic technique used to promote wound healing through negative pressure. It helps remove infectious materials and exudate, reducing bacterial load in the wound.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. VAC therapy accelerates healing by stimulating blood flow, which enhances tissue repair.
2. The VAC system consists of a vacuum pump, a special dressing, and a canister for collecting wound exudate.
3. It is particularly effective for treating chronic wounds that are resistant to conventional therapies.
4. By maintaining a moist environment, VAC therapy aids in the prevention of infection.
5. This technique is often used after surgical debridement to manage complex wounds and prevent bacterial colonization.

Review Questions

• What role does vacuum-assisted closure play in promoting wound healing?
• Describe the components of a VAC system and their functions.
• Explain how VAC therapy prevents bacterial infections in wounds.

Related terms

Negative Pressure Wound Therapy (NPWT): A broader term encompassing various techniques that use negative pressure to promote wound healing.

Surgical Debridement: The removal of dead or infected tissue from a wound to improve healing.

Exudate Management: The process of controlling fluid that seeps out of blood vessels or tissues during inflammation.