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How does PICO work?

Published in Wound Care 2 mins read

PICO, specifically the PICO 7 sNPWT system, works by applying negative pressure to a wound, promoting healing.

Understanding PICO's Mechanism

The PICO system is a type of Negative Pressure Wound Therapy (NPWT). Here's a breakdown of how it functions:

  • Suction Application: The system creates a gentle suction over the wound area.
  • Fluid Removal: This suction draws out excess fluids and exudates from the wound.
  • Compression Force: Simultaneously, it provides a compressive force on the wound.
  • Protection: The system provides a protective barrier, shielding the injured area from external contaminants. This ultimately helps promote healing of the wound.

The Benefits of PICO

PICO's method provides several key benefits in wound care:

  • Reduces Edema: By removing excess fluid, it helps decrease swelling around the wound.
  • Promotes Tissue Growth: The negative pressure encourages the formation of new healthy tissue.
  • Lowers Infection Risk: The protective barrier prevents external bacteria or debris from entering the wound.
  • Accelerates Healing: All these factors combined contribute to faster healing times.

How the System Works in Practice

  1. Application: A dressing is applied over the wound, which is connected to a small pump.
  2. Negative Pressure: The pump generates negative pressure, creating the suction effect.
  3. Continuous Treatment: The system operates continuously, ensuring consistent wound care.
  4. Wound Monitoring: Healthcare professionals monitor the wound and the system's effectiveness.

Key Takeaways from the Reference Material

  • The PICO 7 sNPWT system provides suction (negative pressure).
  • This suction draws out excess fluid from a wound.
  • It provides a compressive force to the area.
  • PICO protects the injured area from getting dirty, helping promote healing.

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