Negative Pressure Wound Therapy (NPWT) in Breast Surgery

Abstract

Background: The use of Negative Pressure Wound Dressing has been found to promote the wound healing process, therefore, reducing the risk of surgical site complications. The use of this technique amongst breast cancer patients, who have often encountered a distressing journey, may prove beneficial in making the post-operative process less eventful. Many of these patients have a limited time window to start adjuvant treatment. The use of a negative pressure device is recommended in both prophylactic and therapeutic scenarios. NPWT may also be used in patients who have undergone cosmetic breast surgery. We have evaluated the use of NPWT in breast surgery with an updated and systematic review of the available literature. Methods: The authors systematically searched the PubMed, Science Direct, and Wiley Online databases using the phrases “Negative Pressure Wound Therapy in Breast surgery” and “Vacuum-Assisted Closure in Breast Wound” and all publications, including relevant data were considered eligible for inclusion in the review. Results: We have found reports of 7 studies, 3 retrospective, 2 prospective, one randomized trial, and one case series. The complication rate in the NPWT group versus conventional dressing group has been reported in 5 papers. A statistically significant effect in favor of NPWT was documented in three trials. Conclusion: The current evidence supports the notion that NPWT systems are beneficial in enhancing the healing of complicated breast wounds. However, larger studies exploring the effectiveness of this technique would be of interest to breast surgeons.