Enhancing Quality of Life in Patients with Acute Wounds: The Synergistic Effects of Negative Pressure Wound Therapy and Physiotherapy
Year: 2025
Type: article
Study design: Observational Study
Abstract: Background and Objectives: Negative Pressure Wound Therapy (NPWT) is widely used in acute wound management, promoting tissue regeneration and edema reduction. However, the effects of integrating physiotherapy on functional recovery and quality of life remain underexplored. This study assesses the combined impact of NPWT and physiotherapy on functional and clinical outcomes in patients with acute wounds at the Timișoara County Emergency Clinical Hospital. Methods: This cross-sectional study included 205 patients divided into two groups: NPWT-only (n = 110) and NPWT plus physiotherapy (n = 95). Clinical and functional parameters, including joint mobility, edema, and pain, were assessed at baseline, ten days, six weeks, and six months. Quality of life and mental health were evaluated using WHOQOL-BREF, SF-36, VAS, and HADS questionnaires. Results: Compared to NPWT alone, the NPWT + physiotherapy group showed at discharge greater edema reduction (40.58 ± 2.48 vs. 41.15 ± 2.39), improved joint mobility (14.22 ± 1.66° vs. 10.05 ± 1.76°, p < 0.05), and a more significant pain decrease (VAS reduction to 5.68 ± 1.13 vs. 6.7 ± 1.05, p < 0.001). Quality of life scores improved notably, with higher WHOQOL-BREF (59.89 ± 5.86 vs. 66.64 ± 6.24, p < 0.001) and HADS psychological scores (p < 0.001). Conclusions: Combining NPWT with physiotherapy enhances functional recovery, reduces pain and anxiety, and improves quality of life. These findings support a multidisciplinary approach in acute wound management.
Source: Biomedicines
Authors: Cristina-Teodora Stanciu, Marcel Mihai Berceanu Vaduva, Daniel Laurentiu Pop, Dinu Vermesan
Language: English
Topic: Wound Healing and Treatments
Subfield: Rehabilitation
Field: Medicine
Domain: Health Sciences
Open Access status: gold
Estimated APC paid: $3,137
OpenAlex ID: W4408824513