Positive clinical benefits are continuing to be seen from the SNaP ultraportable negative pressure wound therapy (NPWT) system developed by Spiracur(Sunnyvale, Calif.-based company). NPWT is a therapeutic technique using a vacuum dressing to promote healing in acute or chronic wounds (such as diabetic foot ulcers, pressure ulcers and surgical incisions), that can also be used to optimize healing of first and second degree burns.The continued vacuum draws out fluid from the wound area and increases blood flow to the region. The SNaP System is the first FDA cleared non-powered, single use NPWT device. It provides the same level of negative pressure therapy as existing technologies but requires no electric or battery power and is 100% disposable.
The SNaP system is comprised of three components: the cartridge, the hydrocolloid dressing and the strap. The novel and proprietary spring mechanism of the cartridge maintains clinically proven negative pressure at 125 mmHg, 100 mmHg or 75 mmHg. The cartridge (canister) can hold 60cc of exudate, and weighs less than 3 oz. The proprietary hydrocolloid dressing and anti-microbial gauze interface offer wound protection and easy removal without maceration (soft skin resulting from leaving a bandage for long periods). The strap comes in three sizes to fit on any arm or leg. When a patient is using the SNaP system, the device is changed twice a week by a nurse or doctor and both the dressing and cartridge are disposed of after use, and a new device is applied until treatment is complete.
The company, which spun out of Stanford University’s acclaimed Biodesign Innovation Program, recently announced the upcoming presentation of four new clinical abstracts that prove the viability of the SNaP system in treating chronic and acute wounds (some in anatomically challenging locations). The abstracts also show that the system can greatly enhance the quality of life for patients who need this wound care system.
Product page: SNaP Wound Care System…
