Introduction: Type of study-prospective study.

A high bacterial load interferes with the healing process of a wound. Vacuum-assisted closure (VAC) is a therapy that helps in wound healing and utilizes a dressing system that continuously or intermittently applies a negative pressure to the wound surface.

This study was done to note the results of VAC (Vacuum Assisted Closure) dressing in wound healing, and also to note the complications that occur in VAC Dressings cases.

Here we compared the VAC dressings and conventional moist wound dressings to enhance the wound healing process and to establish that VAC dressings are better option in the management of wounds.

Material and Methods: This study was done in 30 patients

Time period of study- approximately 2 years from November 2020 to October 2022.

Place of study- Rajendra Institute of Medical Sciences, Ranchi.

Material used for the applying of VAC dressings are:

1. A) Redon drainage tubes with suction
2. B) Cuticell -paraffin gauge
3. C) a sponge foam

Results: Majority of the cases showed better wound healing in 12-14 days while 18.33% of the cases who were above 60 years of age, showed healing by the end of 3-4 weeks. Although a sample size of 30 patients is sufficient for data analysis, a randomized controlled study with a larger population may help to further establish the findings or show variations. 

Conclusion: VAC therapy can be used effectively after wound debridement, because it promotes the formation of granulation tissue, reduces wound oedema, and decreases microbial growth.

Keyword: VAC dressings, moist wound dressing, negative pressure dressing, wound healing

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Dr Vishal Prakash

Senior Resident, Department of Orthopaedics, RIMS, Ranchi