J Hand Microsurg 2022; 14(04): 276-283
DOI: 10.1055/s-0041-1729467
Review Article

Topical Negative Pressure Wound Dressing and Its Applications in the Hand—A Review of the Literature

James Logan
1   Department of Trauma and Orthopedics, Royal Surrey County Hospital, Guildford, United Kingdom
,
Georgia Scott
1   Department of Trauma and Orthopedics, Royal Surrey County Hospital, Guildford, United Kingdom
,
Christopher Peake
1   Department of Trauma and Orthopedics, Royal Surrey County Hospital, Guildford, United Kingdom
,
Jay James Watson
1   Department of Trauma and Orthopedics, Royal Surrey County Hospital, Guildford, United Kingdom
,
Rajive Jose
2   Department of Hand Surgery, Queen Elizabeth Hospital, Birmingham, United Kingdom
› Author Affiliations

Abstract

The use of topical negative pressure wound therapy (NPWT) has become increasingly popular in the management of complex wounds. There are many theories as to the mechanism of action of NPWT, but the essential components of the various systems remain consistent. There are many attractive potential properties of negative pressure dressings that lend themselves to the management of upper limb injuries. This article explores the technique of negative pressure wound dressing, the theories pertaining to mechanism of action, and the increasingly broad indications described for the use of NPWT in the hand. The literature pertaining to the efficacy of NPWT in general is also discussed.



Publication History

Article published online:
18 October 2021

© 2021. Society of Indian Hand Surgery & Microsurgeons. All rights reserved.

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