Vacuum-assisted closure in the treatment of complex gynecologic wound failures

Obstet Gynecol. 2002 Mar;99(3):497-501. doi: 10.1016/s0029-7844(01)01752-5.

Abstract

Background: Complex wound failures are a source of significant morbidity and mortality. They are costly and time consuming to treat, and may evolve into chronic, debilitating conditions. Vacuum-assisted closure is a novel wound healing technique applying subatmospheric pressure to wounds to expedite healing.

Cases: We report the successful use of vacuum-assisted closure therapy on three patients on a gynecologic oncology service with complex wound failures of various chronicity. In all cases, vacuum-assisted closure therapy was well tolerated and demonstrated efficacy within 48 hours of initiation.

Conclusion: We conclude that vacuum-assisted closure therapy should be included in the armamentarium of the gynecologist addressing complex wound failures.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Aged
  • Bandages
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Hysterectomy
  • Omentum / surgery
  • Ovariectomy
  • Surgical Wound Dehiscence / therapy*
  • Vacuum*
  • Wound Healing