Negative pressure wound therapy (NPWT), commonly called a 'wound vac,' is a portable pump that applies controlled suction to a sealed foam dressing inside the wound. It removes excess fluid, increases blood flow to the wound bed, and pulls the wound edges inward. NPWT is used for large, deep, or heavily draining wounds, including post-surgical dehiscence, Stage 3–4 pressure injuries, and complex diabetic foot ulcers.
Negative pressure wound therapy uses a vacuum pump connected by tubing to a sealed dressing placed in the wound. Continuous or intermittent suction (typically –75 to –125 mmHg) removes exudate, reduces edema, increases local perfusion, and applies micro-strain to the tissue, all of which accelerate granulation tissue formation. Dressings are changed every 2–3 days.
There is no single course length that applies to every wound. The treating team reassesses the wound's size, drainage, tissue, and progress at dressing changes and decides whether NPWT should continue, be adjusted, or end based on the clinical goal and care plan. Do not stop the pump or remove the foam simply because a certain number of days has passed.
Medicare Part B covers NPWT pump rental and supplies under DME when criteria are met (wound type, prior conservative care, expected benefit). Healix360 coordinates the DME order, the in-home dressing changes, and ongoing physician oversight so the patient does not need to travel to a wound clinic for vac changes.
Negative pressure wound therapy (NPWT), commonly called a 'wound vac,' is a portable pump that applies controlled suction to a sealed foam dressing inside the wound. It removes excess fluid, increases blood flow to the wound bed, and pulls the wound edges inward. NPWT is used for large, deep, or heavily draining wounds, including post-surgical dehiscence, Stage 3–4 pressure injuries, and complex diabetic foot ulcers.
Call 877-545-1300 or request a provider to begin care. Healix360 serves listed California communities. Medicare Part B, Medicare Advantage and Medi-Cal benefits are verified before treatment.