What is V.A.C.^® Therapy?

While the V.A.C.^® Therapy System may look complicated – and indeed it does use highly advanced technology – the idea behind it is very simple. In essence, V.A.C.^® (or Vacuum Assisted Closure) Therapy uses controlled negative pressure (a vacuum) to help heal wounds.

 

How Does V.A.C.^® Therapy Work?

V.A.C.^® Therapy is an advanced wound healing system. It consists of a computer-controlled therapy unit, sterile plastic tubing, clear adhesive seal and special foam dressings. The foam dressing is placed inside your wound and covered with the clear adhesive seal, similar to a large bandage. The tubing is used to connect the foam dressing to the V.A.C.^® Therapy unit. When turned on, the V.A.C.^® Therapy unit creates a vacuum over your wound by drawing all the air out.

V.A.C.^® Therapy is a system that uses controlled negative pressure (vacuum) to create an environment that promotes wound healing by brining the wound edges together, reducing edema, promoting granulation tissue formation and perfusion, and by removing wound fluids and infectious materials.

Maintaining Your Quality of Life

The new V.A.C.^® Therapy System is called the ActiV.A.C.^® Therapy System because it does just that: it allows many patients to stay active and to do many of the things they normally do with minimal interruption. The ActiV.A.C.^® Therapy unit is small and lightweight and even comes with its own carrying case. Because it can easily be worn on the body with a strap and belt, you can receive the healing benefits of V.A.C.^® Therapy while continuing many of your daily activities, like going to work, to the movies or whatever else you choose to do.

 To learn more about the ActiV.A.C.^® Therapy System or V.A.C.^® Therapy, contact your healthcare provider and click on the links below:

Patient and Family Handbook. A PDF handbook that explains more about V.A.C.^® Therapy and what you can expect when placed on the ActiV.A.C.^® Therapy System.

Important Safety Information that lists indications, contraindications, warnings and precautions for V.A.C.^® Therapy

ActiV.A.C.^® Therapy System User Manual. A PDF manual that explains in great detail how to use your ActiV.A.C.^® Therapy System, troubleshoot alarms, change dressings and more.

ActiV.A.C.^® Therapy System Quick Reference Guide.  A PDF quick reference guide that illustrates key instructions for your ActiV.A.C.^® Therapy System.

ActiV.A.C.^® Therapy System Patient Education Video. An online video that walks you through the ActiV.A.C.^® Therapy System, and what you may expect during your course of therapy.  Click here for Spanish version of video.

KCI Patient Resource Page.  A link to KCI's main website with additional information for patients.

Patient Safety Information