Use of Subatmospheric Pressure Systems in Diabetic Foot Ulcers
Summary: This review explores the application of subatmospheric pressure systems, or negative pressure wound therapy (NPWT), in managing diabetic foot ulcers (DFUs), a major complication of diabetes mellitus affecting millions globally due to neuropathy, vascular disease, and infection risks. Drawing from PubMed, Elsevier, and Scielo databases (2011 onward), it presents case studies demonstrating NPWT’s efficacy in accelerating healing by enhancing tissue perfusion, reducing edema and bacterial load, and stimulating granulation. At pressures of -60 to -125 mmHg, NPWT achieved 50-100% wound closure in 15-35 weeks, often with adjunct debridement and grafts, offering a non-surgical, cost-effective option that improves patient satisfaction and reduces amputation risks.
Key Highlights:
- Case 1: 47-year-old woman with full-thickness DFU; NPWT at -125 mmHg reduced depth 50% by week 5, full epithelialization by week 15.
- Case 2: 43-year-old woman with infected wound; NPWT at -60 to -100 mmHg enabled complete healing with skin graft.
- Case 3: 34-year-old man with 3.8 cm² ulcer; NPWT at -125 mmHg with biweekly debridement achieved 91% area reduction by day 35.
- Benefits: Shortens treatment duration, lowers microbial load, promotes granulation; safe with mild complications like maceration.
- Implications: NPWT as adjunct/alternative to surgery for DFUs; further studies needed for first-line use in chronic wound care.
Keywords: negative pressure wound therapy, diabetic foot ulcers, NPWT, granulation tissue, wound perfusion