The use of vacuum-assisted closure in the treatment of post-transplant wound infections: a case series

J Heart Lung Transplant. 2005 Sep;24(9):1444. doi: 10.1016/j.healun.2004.12.111.

Abstract

We present 6 cases of the successful use of vacuum-assisted closure dressings as the primary treatment of wound infection after thoracic organ transplantation. In a series of 160 successive transplant operations, deep wound infections developed in 6 patients (3.7%). These all fully resolved over 3 to 29 days with the use of vacuum dressings. We believe vacuum-assisted closure therapy in the context of heart and lung transplantation is effective, well tolerated, and avoids the need for repeated surgical debridement and reconstruction.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Aged
  • Female
  • Heart Transplantation
  • Humans
  • Lung Transplantation
  • Male
  • Middle Aged
  • Occlusive Dressings*
  • Polyurethanes
  • Suction / instrumentation
  • Surgical Wound Infection / therapy*
  • Treatment Outcome
  • Vacuum
  • Wound Healing

Substances

  • Polyurethanes