[6 years V.A.C. in general surgery -- clinical data from 128 patients]

Since the introduction of vacuum assisted closure therapy (V.A.C.) at the Department of Surgery/St. Anna-Hospital Herne has taken place in 2000 there was a rapid increase of indications to use this therapy. We present data from 128 patients who were treated with this method from 2000-2005 for different kinds of diseases. We report the management of a 78-year-old male patient who developed a Fournier's gangrene after an acute appendicitis with retroperitoneal perforation and an enterocutaneous fistula of the cecum. Using V.A.C. in surgery, a quick and safe treatment of infection and healing could be achieved.