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
- Application: A dressing is applied over the wound, which is connected to a small pump.
- Negative Pressure: The pump generates negative pressure, creating the suction effect.
- Continuous Treatment: The system operates continuously, ensuring consistent wound care.
- 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.