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systems specifically tailored for this use [Figures 1-3]. [20-22] management in pediatric oncology patients. Another
In our study, no complications were reported with weakness is the lack of patients below six months
incisional wound NPWT. All wounds using the incisional of age; this patient population may require different
[25]
NPWT system healed without issue, although use of approaches and different settings for NPWT. Another
the incisional NPWT was not randomized to establish a issue which was not addressed in our study is the use of
[26]
control group for comparison. However, from historical continuous versus intermittent negative pressure. All
controls of similar patients, we would have expected our patients except one had continuous NPWT. There is
a complication rate of 6-22%. In addition to wound experimental evidence that intermittent vacuum therapy
care, our study shared the same favorable outcomes of promotes more granulation tissue formation than
[27]
previous studies in using vacuum assisted fixation of continuous therapy. Regardless of these limitations,
STSG and Integra with acceptable complication rates. [23] our study suggests that the use of NPWT is a viable and
safe tool in this pediatric oncology population.
Another novel use of NPWT in our system involved using
the VAC in patients with wound healing issues while In conclusion, we have found NPWT to be a valuable
undergoing concurrent chemotherapy. Specifically with tool for the management of open wounds, fixation
regard to limb salvage patients, one of our protocols of skin grafts, and as a dressing for incision sites in
involved the use of bevacizumab (an angiogenesis children who are undergoing chemotherapy or radiation
inhibitor) and concurrent high-dose methotrexate. Post- therapy. NPWT complications in this patient population
surgical wound dehiscence or delayed wound healing in are acceptable and easily manageable.
this population was not uncommon. Given the attendant
myelosuppression in these patients, surgical wound Financial support and sponsorship
closure frequently needed to be delayed. In such patients, Nil.
wound care was often performed using NPWT for a
prolonged period of time, with excellent results. Conflicts of interest
There are no conflicts of interest.
NPWT offers a safe and reliable alternative to traditional
wound care. Our findings are equivalent to similar REFERENCES
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252 Plast Aesthet Res || Volume 3 || July 14, 2016