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A role for vacuum-assisted closure in lower limb trauma: a proposed algorithm.
Joseph Hardwicke1, Peter Paterson
1Lancashire Teaching Hospitals NHS Trust, Royal Preston Hospital, Preston, Lancashire. joe_1976@lycos.co.uk
The International Journal of Lower Extremity Wounds
|May 16, 2006
Summary
Vacuum-assisted closure (V.A.C.) offers a successful treatment for complex tibial fractures requiring flap coverage. This method provides excellent results for soft tissue reconstruction in challenging cases.
Area of Science:
- Orthopaedic Surgery
- Plastic Surgery
- Wound Management
Background:
- Gustilo 3b tibial fractures often necessitate flap coverage, with limited treatment options prior to V.A.C. introduction.
- Medical comorbidity and complex wounds present significant challenges in managing these severe injuries.
Observation:
- Vacuum-assisted closure (V.A.C.) has become integral to soft tissue reconstruction algorithms.
- The authors present three distinct cases of Gustilo 3b tibial fractures managed with V.A.C.
Findings:
- All three cases, despite varying injury mechanisms and management strategies, achieved successful outcomes with V.A.C. therapy.
- V.A.C. demonstrates efficacy in treating complex soft tissue defects associated with tibial fractures.
Implications:
- V.A.C. therapy represents a valuable tool in the management of severe tibial fractures.
- Further definition of V.A.C.'s role within established treatment pathways is warranted.
- Successful outcomes highlight V.A.C.'s potential in complex wound reconstruction.