Vacuum-Assisted Wound Closure V.A.C. Trauma
This treatment is used to help healthy tissue grow in your wound. V.A.C. can be used alone or with surgery.
Benefits
• Promotes healing by getting rid of excess fluids while keeping the wound
moist
• Prevent infection
• Increases blood flow
• Draws the edges of deep wounds closer together
• Support for surgery, grafting and reconstruction
How it works
The system has a computer driven vacuum pump. It is set to apply pressure to help close the wound. A special foam dressing is put on the wound and is attached to a drain tube(s). The dressing and drain tube(s) is covered to create an airtight seal. The drainage collects in a throw away canister attached to the unit.
For best success, keep your dressing clean and dry. Do not adjust or change the settings on the unit. Do not stop using the unit without a doctor’s order.
When to Call the Doctor
• Increase in odor from your dressing. Slight odor is normal.
• Blood in your drainage canister. Report this right away.
• Increase in pain
• Increase in redness around the dressing.
• Flu-like symptoms - fevers, chills, nausea, vomiting, or muscle aches.
Phone Numbers
Surgery Clinic: (608) 263-7502. This is a 24 hour number.
After hours, weekends, and holidays ask for the Burn Doctor on call. We will call you back.
Toll Free: 1-800-323-8942
The information provided should not be used during any medical emergency or for the diagnosis or treatment of any medical condition. A licensed physician should be consulted for diagnosis and treatment of any and all medical conditions. Call 911 for all medical emergencies. Any duplication or distribution of the information contained herein is strictly prohibited.
Last Updated: 07/31/2012
Copyright © 07/31/2012 University of Wisconsin Hospitals and Clinics Authority. All rights reserved. Produced by the Department of Nursing. HF#6075
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