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TODAY'S TECHNICIAN |
VACUUMS IN VETERINARY MEDICINE Vacuum-assisted closure (VAC; kcianimalhealth.com) is a new modality for veterinary wound therapy. The benefit of
the VAC system is its ability to enhance wound healing by: UÊProviding even distribution of negative pressure suction
UÊDrawing wound edges together UÊRemoving fluid UÊDecreasing localized edema as well as bacterial load UÊAccelerating debridement UÊPromoting perfusion and granulation tissue formation UÊDecreasing possibility of tissue trauma or necrosis
secondary to localized high-pressure suction.3 This system is not required for the majority of wounds but can be beneficial in the initial management of large wounds, infected wounds, or wounds with marginally devitalized tissues after debridement due to its ability to promote increased vascularity.
The VAC system works in the following manner (Figures
A and B): UÊThe wound is prepared by placing a structured, open- cell piece of sterile foam in the wound.
UÊA suction catheter is placed on top of the foam. UÊAn adhesive membrane is cut to size and placed over
UÊContinuous suction is applied to the wound using the suction catheter and VAC device (with the desired pressure set).
the entire preparation, extending beyond the site and adhering to healthy skin along the perimeter to create a tight seal.
UÊResearch suggests that 125 mm Hg is the optimal level of negative pressure; therefore, it is the one most commonly used.3
A
B
Figures A and B. VAC placement on a patient that was hit by a car, resulting in a large degloving wound on its dorsum
CONCLUSION The proper care of wounds, bandages, and drains is critical to ensuring optimal success in wound healing and restoration of good health. From the initial assessment and treatment of a wound through all stages of its care, the veterinary technician greatly impacts the patient's recovery through diligent monitoring and careful observation. Knowing the principles of wound care and the various treatment techniques enables the technician to provide the highest level of care, which helps ensure the best outcome for the patient. ■
PHOTO CREDITS
Figures 1, 2, 4–6: Courtesy Dr. Todd Hamilton, Veterinary Hospital of University of Pennsylvania
Figure 3: Courtesy Dr. Georga Karbe, Veterinary Hospital of University of Pennsylvania
Figure 7: Courtesy Dr. Meghan Kruse, Veterinary Hospital of University of Pennsylvania
References
1. Slatter D. Wound management of superficial skin wounds. Textbook of Small Animal Surgery, 3rd ed. Philadelphia: Saunders Elsevier, 2002, p 269.
2. Basser JM, McCurnin DM. Wound management, wound healing, and bandaging. McCurnin's Clinical Textbook for Veterinary Technicians, 7th ed. Philadelphia: Saunders Elsevier, 2009, pp 1235-1237.
3. VAC therapy for wounds. kci1.com/KCI1/vactherapy; accessed December 2011. January/February 2012 Today's Veterinary Practice 67
Jessica Bosco, CVT, is a veterinary nurse at Matthew J. Ryan Veterinary Hospital of the University
of Pennsylvania. She is focused on the perioperative care of patients in the Soft Tissue Surgery Ward and assists the 8 surgeons/ professors that are part of the ward's team. Ms. Bosco graduated from Camden County College's Animal Science Program with an Associate's degree in allied health. She has worked in the veterinary field for 15 years.
Principles of Wound Care & Bandaging Techniques