Negative Pressure Wound Therapy for Breast Reduction Surgery
What You Need to Know Before You Apply
What is the purpose of this trial?
This trial investigates a new method for wound care after breast reduction surgery. It compares closed incision negative pressure wound therapy (ciNPWT), a device that aids healing through gentle suction, with standard adhesive dressings. Researchers aim to determine if this new method can reduce complications, improve patient satisfaction, and prove cost-effective. Women scheduled for breast reduction surgery on both breasts, who meet specific surgical criteria and can attend follow-up visits, might be suitable for this study. As an unphased trial, it offers participants the chance to contribute to innovative research that could improve post-surgical care.
Will I have to stop taking my current medications?
The trial does not specify if you need to stop taking your current medications, but you cannot participate if you use steroids or other immune modulators that affect wound healing.
What prior data suggests that this negative pressure wound therapy is safe for breast reduction surgery?
Research has shown that using a special type of bandage called prophylactic closed incision negative pressure wound therapy (ciNPWT) after surgery might be safe. Studies have found that patients using ciNPWT experienced fewer wound problems, such as infections and slow healing, compared to those with regular bandages.
One study found that ciNPWT reduced the risk of infections at the surgery site, helping wounds stay clean and heal faster. Reports of serious side effects were absent, suggesting that ciNPWT is generally well-tolerated.
Overall, current evidence supports the safety of ciNPWT, making it a potentially safe choice for those considering this treatment after breast reduction surgery.12345Why are researchers excited about this trial?
Researchers are excited about prophylactic closed incision negative pressure wound therapy (ciNPWT) for breast reduction surgery because it offers a novel approach to promoting wound healing and preventing complications. Unlike standard adhesive dressings, ciNPWT uses a vacuum-sealed dressing to actively remove excess fluid and reduce swelling, which can accelerate healing and potentially lower the risk of infection. This method not only enhances the healing environment but may also improve scar quality, offering a significant advantage over traditional treatments.
What evidence suggests that prophylactic ciNPWT is effective for breast reduction surgery?
Research has shown that using a special bandage called prophylactic closed incision negative pressure wound therapy (ciNPWT) can improve recovery after surgery. In this trial, participants will receive ciNPWT on one breast following reduction mammaplasty, while the other breast will receive a standard adhesive dressing for comparison. Studies have found that ciNPWT lowers the risk of complications like infections and wound separation compared to regular bandages. Specifically, one study found that patients using ciNPWT experienced fewer wound issues and infections. Another study observed better healing and fewer instances of wound breakdown. These results suggest that ciNPWT could effectively reduce complications after surgery.12467
Who Is on the Research Team?
Kenneth L Fan, MD
Principal Investigator
MedStar Georgetown University Hospital
Are You a Good Fit for This Trial?
This trial is for women aged 18 or older who are planning to have breast reduction surgery using a specific technique at MedStar Georgetown University Hospital or MedStar Good Samaritan Hospital. Participants must be able to follow the study's procedures and attend all follow-up visits.Inclusion Criteria
Exclusion Criteria
Timeline for a Trial Participant
Screening
Participants are screened for eligibility to participate in the trial
Treatment
Participants undergo reduction mammaplasty with either prophylactic closed incision negative pressure wound therapy or standard adhesive dressing
Follow-up
Participants are monitored for safety and effectiveness, including assessments of pain, scar quality, and patient satisfaction
What Are the Treatments Tested in This Trial?
Interventions
- Prophylactic ciNPWT
- Standard Adhesive Dressing
Find a Clinic Near You
Who Is Running the Clinical Trial?
Medstar Health Research Institute
Lead Sponsor
3M
Industry Sponsor
Dr. John Banovetz
3M
Chief Medical Officer since 2017
PhD in Inorganic Chemistry from Stanford University, Bachelor's degree in Chemistry from Hamline University
William 'Bill' Brown
3M
Chief Executive Officer
Bachelor's and Master's degrees in Mechanical Engineering from Villanova University, MBA from The Wharton School, University of Pennsylvania