Negative Pressure Wound Therapy – NPWT
What is NPWT and How Does It Work
Negative Pressure Wound Therapy (NPWT) applies controlled suction to a wound or ulcer through a special dressing connected to a small pump. This technique helps create a protected and stable wound care environment.
The negative pressure removes excess fluid, reducing local swelling and maintaining balanced moisture: not too wet and not too dry. In this way, the wound area remains stable and shielded from external contaminants.
At the same time, the suction helps the wound stay more secure by minimizing unnecessary movements that could cause irritation. Dressings are changed at intervals determined by the system’s instructions and the healthcare professional’s assessment.
Indications & Use Cases
Pressure ulcers
Pressure injuries can remain stagnant for months, causing pain, limited mobility and frequent dressing changes.
Negative pressure helps reduce fluid build-up, shields the wound from contaminants and maintains a stable care environment.
In practice, this may lead to fewer changes and a more predictable daily routine, following clinical guidance.
Post-operative incisions & chronic wounds
Common use cases include high-risk incisions (e.g., orthopaedic surgery, abdominal procedures), hard-to-heal chronic ulcers and wounds with heavy exudate that require continuous moisture control.
The choice of system and duration are determined by the healthcare professional, based on the wound type and progress.
Smith & Nephew - PICO 7
PICO 7 – Key Features
The PICO 7 by Smith & Nephew is a disposable, portable NPWT system designed for up to 7 days of continuous use.
The compact pump delivers a stable negative pressure of approximately -80mmHg and operates quietly, making it suitable for both hospital and home care settings.
The device works with specialized dressings that distribute negative pressure evenly across the wound surface. It is available in various sizes to fit post-operative incisions, chronic wounds and pressure ulcers.
PICO 7 is designed for out-of-hospital use, with on-device indicators that notify the user about operating status and dressing changes. Its small size makes it easy to integrate into daily routines.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is Negative Pressure Wound Therapy (NPWT)?
It is a wound care method that applies controlled suction, helping to manage exudate and keep the wound area stable and protected.
How long can the PICO 7 be used?
The device is designed for up to 7 days of continuous use, depending on the instructions for use and clinical assessment.
In which cases is PICO 7 applied?
It is used in post-surgical incisions, chronic wounds and pressure ulcers, always under medical supervision.
Does it always require a secondary dressing?
No. PICO 7 comes with specialized dressings that are designed to work independently for this therapy.
What are the main differences from hospital NPWT systems?
PICO 7 is smaller, portable and more discreet. It offers ease of use at home, but it is intended for cases with controlled exudate levels.
What Research Shows About Portable NPWT
According to a published study in the journal Wound Practice and Research (Webber et al., 2022), the use of portable negative pressure systems in hard-to-heal wounds led to significant improvement. The reported cases included traumatic injuries, chronic venous leg ulcers and pressure ulcers in elderly patients.
Clinicians noted improved exudate management, less irritation of the surrounding skin and a reduced need for frequent dressing changes. Patients found the system easy to use, which supported the continuation of wound care at home.
Source: Webber L. et al. (2022) Wound Practice and Research, 30(2):108-111. DOI: 10.33235/wpr.30.2.108-111
Conclusion
Negative Pressure Wound Therapy (NPWT) is one of the major advances in wound care, offering a controlled way to manage exudate and protect the wound area. The method is used in post-surgical incisions, chronic wounds and pressure ulcers, helping to create a stable healing environment.
Portable systems such as PICO 7 by Smith & Nephew make it possible to apply NPWT outside the hospital, with compact size, quiet operation and specialized dressings. This allows patients to experience more comfort in daily life, while wound care remains reliable and effective under professional guidance.
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