Gauze-Based NPWT

A Clinical Review of Available Research

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Abstract

Negative Pressure Wound Therapy (NPWT), the application of sub-atmospheric pressure to a wound using a dressing medium in a closed environment, has become a recognized intervention for various types of wounds.1 NPWT is utilized to attain goals of wound healing, including removal of wound exudate and fluids; increasing blood flow to the wound; and stimulation of granulation tissue at the wound bed.2

Much of the readily available articles and materials have focused on the use of open-cell polyurethane foam as the dressing medium; however, with comprehensive investigation of current clinical databases, evidenced-based research exists which supports gauze as an effective interface for use with NPWT. The use of NPWT has evolved over the last decade due to its remarkable effects on the healing of chronic and difficult wounds.3 Although Paglinawan et al have shown that both gauze and foam result in increased granulation tissue formation, it is believed, within the general clinical population, that there are differences in the type of granulation tissue formed by gauze than by foam.4, 5

The intent of this white paper is to differentiate and highlight the positive attributes of gauze-based NPWT for treatment of indicated wounds and provide evidence-based guidance for use of gauze-based NPWT. Multiple current research articles, case studies, manuscripts, and patient/clinician testimonies have been ascertained and obtained in preparation of this document.

1. Mendoca D A et al. (2006). Negative pressure wound therapy: a snapshot of evidence. International Wound Journal, Vol. 3, No. 4.
2. Campbell P E et al. (2008). Retrospective Clinical Evaluation of Gauze-Based Negative Pressure Wound Therapy. International Wound Journal, Vol. 5, Issue 2.
3. Malmsjo M, Borquist O, Ingemansson, R (2010). Negative pressure wound therapy using gauze and foam: An in-detail study of the effects on the wound bed including macro and microdeformation, tissue ingrowth and wound bed histology. Accessed at www.prospera-npwt.com/clinical/wp-content/uploads/2010/01/Histology.
4. Paglinawan R, Colic M, Simon M. (2008). A combined study if the influence of different pressure levels combined with various wound dressings on negative pressure wound therapy driven wound healing. Presented at the European Tissue Repair Society Meeting, September 2008, Malta.
5. Borquist O, Ingemansson, R, Malmsjo, M, Gustafsson, L (2009). Tissue Ingrowth into Foam but Not into Gauze During Negative Pressure Wound Therapy. Wounds, Vol. 21, No. 11.

Please Note: Information within this document is subject to change without notice.  Contact your equipment provider or contact Wound RX for the most recent version.

Notice to Clinicians

The clinical research discussed in this whitepaper is not intended as a guarantee for certain clinical results, outcomes or system performance nor does Wound RX guarantee the efficacy of its NPWT systems.  This whitepaper is provided as an educational guide, intending to highlight both historical and recent research on gauze-based NPWT.

Please consult with the patient’s attending physician for specific instructions concerning the patient’s individual wound treatment. Before using an Wound RX NPWT system please refer to all applicable Product Operating Instructions and Reference Guides. Do not operate NPWT equipment unless you have been trained to use it safely and effectively.

Please be aware of the following topics before using an Wound RX NPWT system on a patient:

  • Indications
  • Contraindications
  • Warnings
  • Precautions

In the event of a medical emergency, immediately dial 911 for emergency medical support. Additional product information can be obtained by contacting your medical equipment provider.