The influence of negative pressure wound therapy on bacterial and fungal growth

Background: The use of negative pressure wound therapy (NPWT) in superinfected wounds is controversial. The mechanism of action is unclear, but recent studies have shown lower atmospheric oxygen levels within the dressing. Therefore, different oxygen-favoring bacteria and fungi might benefit or face impaired thriving attached to a standard NPWT-device. After 48 hours, colonies were separately harvested from the agar and foam. Optical density (OD) was obtained in order to Results: For all tested microorganisms, no overall significant differences were found compared to controls. Subanalysis showed lower OD levels from the agar beneath Conclusion: NPWT removed bacteria and fungi from the wound surface but accumulation is found within the foam. The use of NPWT showed no influence on bacterial or fungal growth selection. With superinfected wounds, the use of NPWT should thoroughly be evaluated as toxins and virulence factors may not fully be evacuated.