Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Global Open (Sep 2024)

Optimizing Negative Pressure Wound Therapy in Abdominoplasty Incisions: Chevron Modification

  • Stephen R. Ali, BM, MMedSc (Hons), PGCert (MedEd), PGCert (Mgmt), MAcadMEd, FHEA, DMCC, MRCS (Eng),
  • Parinita Swarnkar, MBBS, iBSc (Hons),
  • Iain S. Whitaker, MA Cantab, PhD, FRCS(Plast), FAcadTM

DOI
https://doi.org/10.1097/GOX.0000000000006115
Journal volume & issue
Vol. 12, no. 9
p. e6115

Abstract

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Summary:. There has been increased use of negative pressure wound therapy (NPWT) to aid closure of abdominoplasty incisions; this obviates previous complications, including delayed wound healing. We describe a reproducible method of NPWT-assisted wound healing applicable to abdominal wounds. We propose a modified method of NPWT application, specific to the to Avance Solo NPWT system, to achieve optimal wound healing by promoting a suitable environment and decreasing high-tension forces. Postoperatively, this technique enables patient and nursing ease owing to increased durability and drainless follow-up. This is further emphasized by the results of a quantitative analysis of a 100-patient case series measuring clinically relevant objective and patient-satisfaction outcomes, and the cost analysis of use.