Complications of Negative Pressure Wound Therapy: A Narrative Review with Clinical Insights
摘要
Negative Pressure Wound Therapy (NPWT), initially developed for the management of chronic wounds, has evolved into an essential modality in modern wound care. By promoting granulation tissue formation, reducing edema, improving perfusion, and facilitating wound closure, NPWT has expanded the therapeutic options for managing complex wounds. However, alongside these benefits, several limitations, technical challenges, and potential complications have also been reported, highlighting the importance of awareness for safe and effective application. This narrative review summarizes the spectrum of complications associated with NPWT and provides practical insights into their mechanisms, risk factors, and preventive strategies. A narrative review of the literature addressing complications and adverse events associated with NPWT was performed. A comprehensive search of PubMed, MEDLINE, EMBASE, and the Cochrane Library was conducted using the terms: 'negative pressure wound therapy complications’, 'NPWT adverse events’, 'vacuum-assisted closure bleeding/infection’, and related MeSH terms. Articles published from 2000 to 2024 were predominantly included. Given the narrative design, formal PRISMA methodology was not applied; however, a transparent search strategy was followed. Relevant information was synthesized and integrated with clinical observations from routine surgical practice. Complications were categorized into four broad domains: device-related, technique-related, wound-related, and patient-related factors. Device-related issues include system alarms, loss of seal, tube blockage and suction malfunction. Technique-related complications arise from improper dressing application, inadequate pressure settings, or inappropriate device handling. Wound-related complications include bleeding, pain, infection, and retention of dressing materials. Despite its proven efficacy, NPWT is not devoid of complications. A thorough understanding of potential adverse events, careful patient selection, meticulous application technique, and vigilant monitoring are critical for optimizing treatment outcomes.