Alternative for negative pressure dressing equipment in resource-limited settings

Abstract

The authors describe a modification of the standard negative pressure wound therapy (NPWT) system that utilises cost-effective and readily available materials without reducing the quality of the NPWT system. Some of the components described may be acquired at commercial stores and be used in healthcare settings if sterilisation/autoclave facilities are available. This proposal is an easy and effective solution to the problem of limited resources in the South African government health sector. This is particularly relevant in rural settings to encourage the utilisation of NPWT where specialised equipment may not be available.