Treating stage IV pressure ulcers with negative pressure therapy: a case report

Decubitus ulcers remain a significant healthcare concern today, especially in the elderly and immobile population. Following the observation of three Stage IV decubitus ulcers refractory to standard medical and surgical therapy for 10 months, a new vacuum-assisted closure device (V.A.C.) was initiated to speed wound healing. The V.A.C. was initiated in August 1996. The three Stage IV ulcers were located on the patient's right ischium, left ischium, and sacrum. On initiation, they measured 7 1/2 cm x 2 1/2 cm x 2 1/2 cm, 8 cm x 3 1/2 cm x 2 1/2 cm, and 3 1/2 cm x 2 cm x 2 cm respectively. The treatment consisted of insertion of sterile sponge into the wound bed connected to the negative pressure device by suction hose. The device operated at a negative pressure of 125 mm Hg with a 5-minute-on 2-minute-off-cycle. Dressing changes were performed every 48 hours during the treatment period. Successful closure of the sacral ulcer occurred in October 1996. The ischial ulcers were small enough to be taken off V.A.C. therapy in early November 1996. While we are encouraged by the results of this study, further additional clinical studies are warranted.