Tyhjiöhaavahoito

Tyhjiöhaavahoito, also known as negative pressure wound therapy (NPWT) or vacuum-assisted closure (VAC), is a therapeutic technique used to manage a variety of acute and chronic wounds. It involves applying a controlled, sub-atmospheric pressure to the wound bed using a sealed dressing, a foam or gauze interface, and a vacuum pump. This negative pressure creates a micro-deformation of the wound tissue, which is believed to promote healing through several mechanisms.

The primary goals of tyhjiöhaavahoito are to remove excess wound exudate, reduce edema, improve local blood flow, stimulate the formation of granulation tissue, and help to close the wound. The continuous or intermittent negative pressure can effectively draw fluid from the wound, which can help to prevent maceration and reduce the bacterial load. By drawing the wound edges closer together, it can also decrease wound size and promote a more favorable environment for healing.

Tyhjiöhaavahoito is indicated for a range of wound types, including pressure ulcers, diabetic foot ulcers, venous leg ulcers, surgical wounds, and traumatic wounds. It is typically applied by trained healthcare professionals and requires regular dressing changes, usually every 48 to 72 hours, depending on the wound exudate levels and the specific device used. While generally considered safe, potential complications can include pain, skin irritation, bleeding, and infection, though these are relatively uncommon when the therapy is properly managed. It is a valuable tool in modern wound care, often used in conjunction with other treatment modalities to optimize patient outcomes.