First Experience with the NPseal®: A Novel Mechanically Powered Negative Pressure Dressing Applied to Colorectal Surgery Wounds

Abstract

Background

The use of prophylactic closed-incisional negative pressure wound therapy after colorectal procedures has been shown to reduce postoperative wound complications and surgical site infection. We present our experience with a novel, closed-incision, mechanically powered negative pressure (MP-NPD) dressing after colorectal procedures.

Methods

This was a prospective, single-center, single-arm observational study assessing patient reported and wound healing outcomes of colorectal surgical incisions dressed with a MP-NPD. Consecutive patients, 18 years and older, that met inclusion criteria were enrolled between May 2021 and December 2021.

Results

Thirty patients were included (13 male/17 female) with a mean age of 62.7 ± 11.8 years and mean body mass index of 25.5 ± 4.4 kg/m². The mean incision length covered was 3.0 ± 1.8 cm. The median number of manual pinches required to initially activate the dressing with negative pressure within −75 to −125 mmHg was 12 (range 7-20). Four dressings were changed (13.3%) after drainage was noted inside the pump; not including these, 88.5% (23/26) of dressings held pressure consistently without any re-pinching during the 72-h period since they were first applied in the operating room. 75.9% of patients reported the dressing was “very comfortable” and none reported the dressing restricted mobility. 79.3% of patients reported the dressing was “very easy” to use. There were no cases of major wound complication or surgical site infection within 30 days.

Conclusion

The use of MP-NPD appears to be feasible on primarily-closed colorectal incisions. Further randomized controlled study is warranted to ascertain its clinical efficacy.