Benefits of a Portable, Mechanical Negative Pressure Device for Pediatric Patients
The benefit of Negative Pressure Wound Therapy (NPWT) as an “active,” adjunctive treatment is well-established. Evidence has shown that wounds treated with negative pressure granulate faster than wounds managed with traditional dressings. There is ever-increasing literature to support the use of NPWT to treat wounds effectively and safely in even the youngest patients.1 Some specific benefits of NPWT for pediatric and adolescent patients include decreased frequency of dressing changes as well as a dressing that is occlusive and unlikely to be removed by the patient.
However, every device and adjunctive therapy has its strengths and weaknesses depending on the patient’s individual circumstances, the wound’s level of severity, and other factors. When using NPWT therapy, clinicians should evaluate which NPWT variation, mechanical or traditional, is best suited for a pediatric patient with a recalcitrant wound.
Reference
1. Lund C, Singh C. Skin and Wound Care for Neonatal and Pediatric Populations. In: Doughty DB, McNichol LL, editors. Wound, Ostomy and Continence Nurses Society Core Curriculum Wound Management. Philadelphia, Wolters Kluwer; 2016:198-219.
To learn more about optimal NPWT options and practices to treat pediatric patients with nonhealing wounds, click here.
