Role of Negative Pressure Wound Therapy in the Management of Diabetic Foot Ulcers

Diabetic Foot ulcers are a major cause of admission in diabetic patients, and comprise a disproportionately high number of hospital days because of multiple surgical procedures and prolonged length of stay in Hospital.

The improvement in diabetes therapy and the reinforcement of guidelines have reduced the amputation rate. The approach to diabetic foot ulcers has allowed the availability of several medical options to ensure the best local condition and wound healing.

Negative-pressure wound therapy is a non-invasive therapy system that employs a controlled negative pressure using a vacuum device to promote wound healing by removing fluid from open wounds through a sealed dressing or a foam dressing connected to a container.

An earlier study has shown that NPWT reduced the need for subsequent amputations in a 6-month follow-up period. This reflects the importance of this device in management of DFUs and prevents its complications.

As most of the diabetic wounds present with infection, the success of NPWT is still highly dependent upon the adequacy of surgical debridement and antimicrobial coverage.