The pressure is on – successful wound closure in a challenging patient with a cranial wound using a versatile negative pressure wound therapy system.

Introduction
Negative pressure wound therapy (NPWT) involves the use of a vacuum source to promote wound healing. NPWT usually consists of a wound dressing, a drainage tube inserted into the dressing and an occlusive transparent film that are connected to a vacuum source that supplies negative (subatmospheric) pressure, Campbell (2006). NPWT is thought to promote wound healing through multiple actions including removing exudate from wounds to help establish fluid balance, providing a moist wound environment, and potentially decreasing wound bacterial bioburden, Miller (2005).
NPWT is not new, but has been used over the last decade in different modes of application. There is current debate as to the most effective intensity of pressure, duration of treatment and mode of application. The aim of this poster presentation is to illustrate, by challenging case presentation, that it is the importance of negative pressure per se that helped to facilitate wound closure in this individual, and not the primary interface or mode of application.
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Case History:  The patient was a female who developed a wound on her forehead as a result of blunt trauma after a fall. A successful outcome was achieved using a versatile NPWT system* utilizing a full coverage drain**.

References:

Miller, M S, (2005). Negative pressure wound therapy: “A rose by another name”. Ostomy Wound Management 2005; 51(3): 44-49.

Campbell, P (2006). Surgical wound case studies with the Versatile 1 wound vacuum system for negative pressure wound therapy. Journal Wound Ostomy Continence Nursing, 2006; 33: 2-10.

* V1STA Portable System – Smith & Nephew Wound Management Inc, Largo, Fl.

**Miller Dermivex Kit – Smith & Nephew Wound Management Inc, Largo, Fl.