Vacuum-Assisted Closure (V.A.C.)
The V.A.C. is the latest advancement in wound closure therapy. This treatment minimizes hospitalization, increases outpatient comfort, and achieves dramatic results. This device was invented and developed by our own physicians at The Center for Comprehensive Wound Care to treat those wounds that may have previously been considered untreatable.
The V.A.C. treatment applies localized negative pressure to draw the edges of the wound to the center of the site. The negative pressure is applied to a special dressing positioned within the wound cavity or over a flap or graft. By applying pressure directly to the wound, we are able to remove the fluid that causes swelling, stimulate cellular growth, increase blood flow, and promote an increased healing response.
The V.A.C. used in various wound stages.*
abdominal wound
amputation
chronic chest wound
spider bite
wound through body
*The wounds shown here are intended for medical purposes and are graphic in nature.
Wound Stages
STAGE I
Nonblanchable erythema of intact skin, the heralding lesion of skin ulceration.
STAGE II
Partial thickness skin loss involving epidermis, dermis, or both. The ulcer is superficial and presents clinically as an abrasion, blister, or shallow crater.
STAGE III
Full thickness skin loss involving damage to or necrosis of subcutaneous tissue that may extend down to, but not through, underlying fascia. The ulcer presents clinically as a deep crater with or without undermining of adjacent tissue.
STAGE IV
Full thickness skin loss with extensive destruction, tissue necrosis, or damage to muscle, bone, or supporting structures (e.g., tendon, joint capsule). Undermining and sinus tracts may be associated with Stage IV pressure ulcers.