The Sandwich Technique for Quick and Efficient Application of Negative Pressure Wound Therapy to the Feet and Hands: A Case Report

Abstract

Introduction. NPWT is a surgical dressing that combines polyurethane foam with the subsequent application of continuous or intermittent negative pressure. NPWT facilitates granulation tissue production by macrostrain, microstrain and, if desired, fluid instillation. Sealing the polyurethane foam over the wound bed is achieved using acrylic drapes; however, this can be difficult to use in some anatomic sites. Failure to achieve an effective seal can necessitate additional supplies, which has led to increased innovation in developing a more effective NPWT seal over the target wound bed. Obtaining an effective pressure seal on the feet or hands can be difficult because these anatomic sites have distinct curvature for each digit, with multiple interdigital web spaces and independent mobility. In this case report, the authors propose a technique to apply either an acrylic drape or combination acrylic and soft silicone drape utilizing the “sandwich technique” to seal NPWT foam quickly and efficiently to the feet or hands.