Written by the Fiveable Content Team • Last updated September 2025
Written by the Fiveable Content Team • Last updated September 2025
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.
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VAC therapy accelerates healing by stimulating blood flow, which enhances tissue repair.
The VAC system consists of a vacuum pump, a special dressing, and a canister for collecting wound exudate.
It is particularly effective for treating chronic wounds that are resistant to conventional therapies.
By maintaining a moist environment, VAC therapy aids in the prevention of infection.
This technique is often used after surgical debridement to manage complex wounds and prevent bacterial colonization.
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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.