Vacuum-assisted closure (VAC)

Definition

Vacuum-assisted closure (VAC) is a therapeutic technique used to promote wound healing through negative pressure. It helps remove infectious materials and exudate, reducing bacterial load in the wound.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. VAC therapy accelerates healing by stimulating blood flow, which enhances tissue repair.
2. The VAC system consists of a vacuum pump, a special dressing, and a canister for collecting wound exudate.
3. It is particularly effective for treating chronic wounds that are resistant to conventional therapies.
4. By maintaining a moist environment, VAC therapy aids in the prevention of infection.
5. This technique is often used after surgical debridement to manage complex wounds and prevent bacterial colonization.

Related terms

Negative Pressure Wound Therapy (NPWT): A broader term encompassing various techniques that use negative pressure to promote wound healing.

Surgical Debridement: The removal of dead or infected tissue from a wound to improve healing.

Exudate Management: The process of controlling fluid that seeps out of blood vessels or tissues during inflammation.