Mechanics of wound healing and importance of Vacuum Assisted Closure® in urology

Purpose: We discuss the mechanisms of wound healing and our experience with the Vacuum Assisted Closure device (Kinetic Concepts, Inc., San Antonio, Texas) for complex urogenital wounds. Materials and Methods: The literature obtained from a Medline search on wound healing, wound failure and vacuum assisted closure was reviewed. In addition, we reviewed our experience with negative pressure wound therapy. Results: Wound healing is a complex interaction between the reticuloendothelial and immune systems, in addition to correctable internal and external factors. Understanding the healing process improves outcomes and decreases patient morbidity. Negative pressure wound therapy has hastened wound healing and it adds significant improvement in the arsenal of choices available. Conclusions: Vacuum Assisted Closure (R) is a therapeutic alternative that complements surgical and medical intervention in patients with complex wounds.