Vertically drained closed incision NPWT. A novel method for managing surgical incisions: a case series.

UNLABELLED: Topical negative pressure wound therapy (NPWT) is being used with increasing frequency to treat closed surgical incisions that are at high risk for wound complications. Known benefits of topical NPWT include improved perfusion, physical wound support and isolation. This case series report of four colon operations introduces a method to manage closed surgical incisions that is designed to potentiate the effects of topical NPWT. Channel drains are placed vertically through a closed incision and in contact with the foam sponge of a NPWT dressing. The drains transmit negative pressure into the wound in order to enhance fluid removal, reduce dead space and improve tissue apposition for primary healing. DECLARATION OF INTEREST: Dr Leiboff received no funding for this study. Dr Leiboff is President of Tools for Surgery, L.L.C.