You have been given this leaflet because it has been suggested that Vacuum assisted closure) VAC therapy may assist the healing of your wound. VAC and NPWT (Negative Pressure Wound Therapy) are the same therapy but for the purpose of this leaflet we will refer to VAC for ease.

What is VAC?

VAC is a medical device that uses gentle suction via a dressing and an electrical pump to help wounds heal faster.

What does VAC do?

• Gently draws the edges of the wound together
• Removes excess fluid
• Encourages healthy tissue to grow
• Protects the wounds from outside contamination
• Increases the blood supply to the wound
• Reduces healing time.

What does VAC involve?

A gauze or foam dressing is cut to the size of the wound and sealed with a clear sticky film. A tube connects the dressing to the suction pump and once turned on it gently applies suction which is your negative pressure. This slowly draws fluid into the canister that is fitted to the pump. This dressing is normally changed three times a week. The canister is changed weekly unless it becomes full and then it will be changed more frequently. Avoid laying the machine on its back so the fluid can drain into the canister from the bottom up to the full line.

How long will the VAC be on my wound?

This will be decided by the doctors and nurses who are caring for you and it will depend on how your wound is progressing and how well you are. Always feel free to discuss this with them.

Will it hurt when the dressing is changed?

Not everybody finds their wounds painful, some people have discomfort during dressing change but this often depends on the type of wound and the location on your body. If you do find your wound is painful then the nursing staff can give you advice on pain relief and may suggest you take some before the procedure.

Can I move around on VAC therapy?

Yes you are free to move around and would be advised by your nurses if they felt this was not the case.

The VAC unit does need be plugged in and recharged each day and this may be easier to do overnight. The charge should last for up to fourteen hours. It will take about six hours to recharge the battery fully. If your VAC machine has not been working for two hours or more the dressing will need to be renewed.

Can I have a bath or shower?

A bath would only be possible if your wound was above the water level as the seal of the dressing may be affected. A brief shower would be ideal and the nurse can show how you can disconnect your tubing from the pump for this purpose to avoid the pump becoming wet and damaged.

What if the machine alarms?

The machine may sound an alarm, do not be concerned. If so, the display on the pump will state the problem. The problem is normally easily resolved. You will have been given information by your visiting nurse on who to contact should this happen. There is also the company helpline which is 24 hours a day. It is KCI: 0800 980 8880 they can always advise.

Concerns

If you are worried that your dressing does not feel right, that you have a leak in the dressing and the pump is alarming or you have fresh blood in your canister then please call your nursing team on the number you have been given.

What can I do to help my wound heal?

When you have a wound it is important that you have a balanced diet as your body needs protein, carbohydrates, vitamins and minerals to aid your recovery.