Prospective RCT at a Level I trauma center randomizing 58 patients with 62 severe open fractures (predominantly Gustilo type III) to NPWT versus standard gauze dressings between serial debridements, measuring rates of deep infection and osteomyelitis through mean 28-month follow-up.
When you're managing a Gustilo IIIB or IIIC fracture — or any heavily contaminated open fracture requiring serial debridements — apply NPWT between trips to the OR rather than standard gauze: the data show a fivefold reduction in deep infection risk.
Don't expect it to get the wound closure-ready faster; plan your debridement intervals the same way, but use NPWT as your infection-prevention layer while you wait.
Prospective RCT at a Level I trauma center randomizing 58 patients with 62 severe open fractures (predominantly Gustilo type III) to NPWT versus standard gauze dressings between serial debridements, measuring rates of deep infection and osteomyelitis through mean 28-month follow-up.
When you're managing a Gustilo IIIB or IIIC fracture — or any heavily contaminated open fracture requiring serial debridements — apply NPWT between trips to the OR rather than standard gauze: the data show a fivefold reduction in deep infection risk.
Don't expect it to get the wound closure-ready faster; plan your debridement intervals the same way, but use NPWT as your infection-prevention layer while you wait.