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Review
. 2004 Jun;1(2):95-106.
doi: 10.1111/j.1742-4801.2004.00031.x.

Topical negative pressure therapy: mechanisms and indications

Paul E Banwell  1 , Melinda Musgrave
Affiliations
Review

Topical negative pressure therapy: mechanisms and indications

Paul E Banwell et al. Int Wound J. 2004 Jun.

Abstract

Topical negative pressure (TNP) therapy has emerged as a high-technology, microprocessor-controlled physical wound-healing modality. Complex effects at the wound-dressing interface following application of a controlled vacuum force have been documented. These include changes on a microscopic, molecular level and on a macroscopic, tissue level: interstitial fluid flow and exudate management, oedema reduction, effects on wound perfusion, protease profiles, growth factor and cytokine expression and cellular activity, all leading to enhanced granulation tissue formation and improved wound-healing parameters. Primary indications for clinical use have been documented and include traumatic wounds, open abdominal wounds, infected sternotomy wounds, wound bed preparation, complex diabetic wounds and skin-graft fixation. Whilst this therapy now forms an essential part of the wound healing armamentarium, extensive clinical trials are recommended to confirm efficacy and delineate its optimum use.

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Figures

Figure 1
Figure 1
Definition of atmospheric pressure.
Figure 2
Figure 2
Postulated mechanisms of action of topical negative pressure.
Figure 3
Figure 3
Differential effects of topical negative pressure.
Figure 4
Figure 4
Topical negative pressure stimulates granulation tissue formation.
Figure 5
Figure 5
Reverse tissue expansion effect of topical negative pressure.
Figure 6
Figure 6
Example of an anatomical dressing for use in complex diabetic foot wounds.
See this image and copyright information in PMC

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