Service
Wound VAC (Negative Pressure Wound Therapy) Wound care in Plano, TX
A wound VAC, or negative pressure wound therapy (NPWT), is a sealed foam dressing connected to a small portable pump. The pump applies gentle, steady suction that removes excess fluid, helps draw the wound edges together, and encourages healthy new tissue. It is used for wounds that are large, deep, or draining heavily, where standard dressings struggle to keep up.
How We Treat It
A care plan built around wound vac (negative pressure wound therapy)
Dr. Rizvi decides whether NPWT fits your wound after cleaning and debriding it and ruling out problems a VAC should not be placed over, such as untreated infection of the bone or exposed blood vessels. Common uses include surgical wounds that have opened, deep pressure injuries, and diabetic foot wounds after debridement. The dressing is typically changed on a regular schedule, and progress is measured at each change so the therapy is stopped or adjusted once the wound no longer benefits. Wound VAC use follows WOCN guidance and FDA safety communications on NPWT.
Why Patients Choose Dr. Rizvi
What's in the Plan
- Assessment to confirm a wound VAC is the right tool for the wound
- Debridement before placement for a clean wound bed
- Dressing changes and measurements to track progress
- Guidance on living with the portable pump at home
- Coordination with home-health nurses when changes happen at home
- Transition to standard dressings once the wound is ready
Common Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What does a wound VAC do?
It removes excess fluid, keeps the wound moist and sealed, and applies gentle suction that helps the wound shrink and fill in with healthy tissue. For the right wounds it can make daily care easier because the dressing is changed less often than many standard dressings.
Does a wound VAC hurt?
Most people feel a pulling or drawing sensation when the pump starts, which settles quickly. Dressing changes can be uncomfortable, and the team can take steps to reduce that. Tell your care team if pain is increasing.
Can I go home with a wound VAC?
Yes. Portable units are small enough to carry, and many patients go about daily activities with one. You will learn how to handle alarms and when to call the office. Dressing changes may happen at the clinic or with a home-health nurse, depending on your plan.
How long will I need a wound VAC?
It depends on the wound. The therapy continues only while the wound keeps improving, and Dr. Rizvi measures progress at each dressing change. Once the wound is shallow and healthy enough, care usually moves to standard dressings.
Ready to talk about wound vac (negative pressure wound therapy)?
Same- or next-day appointments. Telemedicine available. Most insurance accepted — call to verify your plan.