Vacuum-assisted closure of complex perineal wounds.

Abstract

The Vacuum-assisted Closure device decreases the time to wound healing, thus increasing the deposition of granulation tissue, and decreasing the use of wound care specialists. Perineal wounds present a special challenge. We present four cases of complex perineal wounds in which the Vacuum-assisted Closure device was used. In each case, wound care was simplified and healing accelerated. The Vacuum-assisted Closure device allows earlier wound closure, early skin grafting (with improved graft adherence), earlier hospital discharge, and earlier return to baseline functional status. Its use in the perineum presents a challenge, but with proper application, even the most complex perineal wounds can be healed.