Evaluation of a novel, cannister-based, portable NPWT system with multilayer wound dressing in low to moderately exuding acute and subacute (e.g. dehisced) wounds

Introduction: We examined safety and performance of a new portable NPWT system in the management of patients with traumatic wounds, flaps, grafts and sub-acute wounds.  These patient groups have potential for complications, e.g. wound breakdown, poor graft take, loss of flap viability and infection. NPWT has the potential to reduce the risk of wound complication in these patient groups.Methods:This was a non-comparative, multi-centre clinical study of a portable NPWT device* with a canister and a multilayer wound dressing which operates with a pressure of 125 mmHg. A total of 113 patients were recruited for the following clinical indications: traumatic wounds (n=36), subacute wounds (e.g. dehisced surgical wounds) (n=40), and flaps and grafts (n=37) with low to moderate exudate.  The end point of wound progress was monitored for up to 28 days or when graft take was judged sufficient, flap viability confirmed or when complete healing was achieved.Results:The improvement for the secondary endpoint, wound progress from baseline to final visit was at 81.2% for the combined group (95% CI: 72.2% to 88.3%) similar to the primary endpoint result.  Wound area and volume decreased from baseline to the final visit. The proportions of necrotic and sloughy tissue decreased from baseline to the final visit, while granulation tissue and epithelial tissue increased. Reports of trauma to the wound and surrounding skin were rare and peri-wound skin condition generally improved. Patients and clinicians reported high level of overall satisfaction. The system was found to be easy to use, transported and absorbed exudate well, and had encouraging wear times.  Discussion: Across the range of wounds in this study, results showed that this NPWT system supports wound progress towards healing, graft take and flap viability. One caveat was the low number of flap wounds recruited. Wound progress was complemented with secondary endpoints for additional verification of wound status.  The use of a small lightweight and portable NPWT device can help to facilitate wound management in the home care setting and provides the clinical benefits of the larger NPWT systems in supporting wound healing.   References: