Cling Wrap Technique: an Inexpensive and Simple Way to Seal Negative Pressure Wound Therapy on External Fixation Devices.

Negative pressure therapy is often applied to treat limb traumas with or without bone exposure. However, sealing a negative pressure dressing in the presence of an external fixation device may be complicated and time consuming. In this technique, we attempted to maintain vacuum conditions by preventing air leakage around the screws using plastic drape and cling wrap as the final layer over the external fixation device. To prevent rupturing of the wrap, the prominences of the pins and rods were covered using cotton wool roll. This novel solution is also effective for complex and extended wounds, with no need for additional dressing changes and no occurrence of complications for approximately 4 days. Furthermore, it is an inexpensive, quick, and readily available technique requiring minimal training to perform. It is also adaptable to any anatomical region, allowing the inspection of the limb when required.