Efficacy of negative pressure wound therapy when compared to gauze dressings in the management of bedsores

Introduction: Bedsores contribute to the morbidity of bedridden patients and pose challenge for their rehabilitation. Newer methods are being practised and one among them is negative pressure wound therapy. This study was designed to evaluate its efficacy when compared to gauze dressings. Objectives: To study the effectiveness of negative pressure wound dressings over gauze dressings with respect to rate of wound healing. Materials and Methods: A prospective study was done on patients presenting with bedsores to surgery OPD at Narayana medical college. Patients were divided into two groups by random allocation wherein one group had gauze dressings and the other group underwent negative pressure wound therapy. From the time of initiation of treatment once in every week wound size and depth were measured for 6 consecutive weeks. Results were analysed. Results: There was significant improvement in patients treated with negative pressure wound therapy with respect to wound depth and area. Conclusion: Negative pressure wound therapy is an effective method in the management of bedsores.