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Page last updated:
3 November 2023
NPWT is an advanced wound management technique to create sub atmospheric pressure in a wound. This is achieved by removal of air from a sealed wound using a specifically designed electrically powered suction pump.
NPWT is indicated for patients with chronic, acute traumatic, sub-acute, and dehisced wounds.
In Devon, all NPWT is initiated and supplied through Secondary Care.
Use and provision in a community setting is undertaken by the Tissue Viability Teams, who will provide the relevant training to community staff, and monitor treatment on an ongoing basis.
All NPWT products should be requested via the Tissue Viability Services and not via prescription. Click here for Tissue Viability Service contact details.
GPs should not initiate or prescribe NPWT products, including accessories, dressings, and consumables in primary care.
Robust systems should be in place to assess patient's suitability for starting NPWT, reviewing treatment and discontinuing treatment at appropriate points.
A risk assessment which considers the patient's environment should also be undertaken when considering the use of NPWT in a homecare setting.
Wounds suitable for NPWT include:
Wounds not suitable for NPWT include:
A treatment goal should be defined and NPWT should be discontinued when it is reached.
Other reasons to discontinue NPWT may include:
There are a range of products available, and the product of choice depends on a number of factors including level of exudate of the wound and the mobility of patient.
The quantity supplied should be sufficient to ensure availability when needed, but minimise wastage if therapy is changed. NPWT should not be included on repeat prescribing
as it is requested via the Tissue Viability Services only.
Traditional NPWT systems include a canister for fluid collection from the wound. The pressure applied is adjustable, with continuous and intermittent modes of operation possible. Often powered by a main electricity source, traditional NPWT devices are mostly used for inpatients but can also be adjusted for use in outpatient care.
(tNPWT system)
(tNPWT system)
(tNPWT system)
(tNPWT system)
(tNPWT system)
(tNPWT system)
Single-use NPWT can also be known as: pocket, cannister-free, mechanically powered, disposable, portable NPWT.
Some sNPWT devices are canister-free and handle fluid mainly through evaporation from the outer layer of the dressing. Mainly suitable for low to moderate exudate levels. The pressure is applied continuously and is not usually adjustable. sNPWT devices are often battery powered.
NICE MTG43: PICO negative pressure wound dressings for closed surgical incisions (published May 2019, last updated August 2019):
(sNPWT system)
(sNPWT system)
(sNPWT system)
(sNPWT system)
In the case of topical negative pressure to line vessels, ligaments, and tendons, please see section 17.2.3 Soft polymer dressings. When intended for use specific to NPWT, these are considered consumables of NPWT and must be initiated and supplied through Secondary Care.