Application of irrigation and negative pressure wound therapy (INPWT) to treat diabetic foot gangrene: a case report

This case study summarises the treatment of a patient with diabetic foot gangrene. By undergoing irrigation and negative pressure wound therapy (INPWT) with moist dressing, foot amputation was avoided. The treatment process included: the comprehensive assessment of systemic and local condition; choosing suitable debridement such as sharp surgical debridement; preventing the spread of infection; applying INPWT to reduce endotoxin absorption; and active treatments of primary disease such as controlling blood sugar and blood pressure, and improving microcirculation and nutrition. After 2 months of vigorous INPWT, the patient’s wound bed improved. After the application of a moist dressing, the wound closed and healed successfully at 3 months.