The biomechanics of negative-pressure wound therapy

Includes references.Despite the success of negative-pressure wound therapy, its mechanism of action remains unclear. The common perception that it reduces tissue pressure and increases perfusion has recently been challenged following the observation that tissue necrosis can be caused as a result of its application. A programme of research has been conducted to clarify how tissue pressure changes during negative-pressure wound therapy and the resultant effect thereof on perfusion. The cause for conflicting evidence from other studies was also investigated