What is the primary objective of negative pressure wound therapy (NPWT)?

The primary objective of negative pressure wound therapy (NPWT) is to promote healing by creating a vacuum. This vacuum creates a controlled environment that helps to remove excess fluid and exudate from the wound site, reducing the risk of infection and allowing for better tissue perfusion. This mechanism also encourages the formation of granulation tissue and can draw the edges of the wound closer together, which supports faster healing.

In contrast, while hydration is crucial in wound care, it is not the primary goal of NPWT; rather, NPWT works in a way that can help maintain a moist wound environment indirectly. Reducing inflammation or providing thermal insulation are important factors in overall wound management and healing, but they are not the specific aims of NPWT. The main focus of this therapy is the vacuum effect to stimulate healing and optimize wound closure.