Evaluating the use of negative pressure wound therapy following stoma reversal - A systematic review and meta-analysis of randomised clinical trials.
Am J SurgJul 15, 2026 (epub)
Clinical ResearchGeneral Surgery
Ammar I Ahmed, Matthew G Davey, Noel E Donlon et al.
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In 30 seconds
This systematic review and meta-analysis evaluated the effectiveness of negative pressure wound therapy (NPWT) in reducing surgical site infections (SSIs) and complete wound healing time (CWHT) following stoma reversal. Analyzing six randomized clinical trials with 332 patients, the study found no significant difference in SSI rates (OR: 1.02, p=0.96), but NPWT significantly reduced CWHT by 2.72 days (MD: -2.72, p=0.0001).
Key findings
- NPWT did not significantly reduce SSI rates compared to standard dressings (OR: 1.02, p=0.96).
- NPWT significantly reduced complete wound healing time by 2.72 days (MD: -2.72, p=0.0001).
- No differences were observed in length of hospital stay or hematoma rates.
Why it matters
Understanding the effectiveness of NPWT in stoma reversal can guide clinicians in optimizing postoperative care, particularly for high-risk patients, by potentially improving wound healing times.