Negative Pressure System Update for Complex Wounds: An Exploratory Systematic Review

Abstract

Objective: To review research to determine the evolution of negative pressure therapy for complex wounds. Material and method: An exploratory systematic review model was applied to determine the evolution of NPWT. A total of 119 research papers were obtained, and the benefit of its application across different specialties was associated using a Chi-squared test. Results: The majority of studies were from 2016 to 2020 (32%), employed a descriptive observational method (63%), were original articles (36%), and focused on general surgery topics (37%) and complex wounds (40%). Cost-benefit was evidenced in 90% of studies, with a significant
association found between the benefit and the specialties applying the therapy (p<0.05). Conclusions: This systematic review demonstrates positive results in the treatment of complex wounds across various pathologies and different specialties, offering a favorable cost-benefit to both the patient and the healthcare system.