Incisional Negative Pressure Wound Therapy for Surgical Site Infection Prophylaxis in the Post-Antibiotic Era

Background: With the prospect of antibiotic failure in the post-antibiotic era, strategies that prevent surgical site infection (SSI) are increasingly important. Current literature suggests that incisional Negative Pressure Wound Therapy (iNWPT) is a promising intervention. Methods: Based on published literature regarding iNPWT, its mechanisms of action, and clinical results, a narrative summary was built, including both the experimental as well as the clinical literature. Results: The experimental literature indicates that iNPWT provides a barrier against external contamination before re-epithelialization, increases blood flow and lymphatic clearance, and reduces edema. Meta-analyses of randomized studies indicate that iNWPT is effective in reducing SSI. We did not identify studies that assessed bacterial clearance during iNPWT in contaminated surgical sites, nor did we identify clinical studies that specified they omitted concomitant antibiotic prophylaxis. Conclusions: Moderate quality evidence indicates that iNWPT reduces SSI, although data without the concomitant use of antibiotic prophylaxis are lacking. The iNPWT is likely effective as a result of its barrier function and optimization of the surgical site micro-environment. For now, iNPWT is recommended for incorporation in SSI prevention bundles. The iNPWT as a substitute for antibiotic prophylaxis is not recommended currently. Further reduction of SSI by iNPWT will lessen the need for therapeutic use of antibiotic agents.