Minimally Invasive Dual Negative-Pressure Strategy for Extensive Morel–Lavallée Lesions
Year: 2026
Type: article
Study design: Case Report
Abstract: Morel–Lavallée lesions (MLLs) of the lower extremities frequently progress to large, encapsulated fluid collections, where persistent dead space becomes the principal driver of recurrence and wound-related complications. Although extensive open debridement can achieve durable cavity obliteration, it may compromise residual perforators and increase soft-tissue morbidity. We describe a minimally invasive technical strategy that combines internal closed-suction drainage with external negative-pressure wound therapy (NPWT) over the dead-space footprint. Following limited incisional evacuation, strategically positioned internal drains provide continuous intracavitary fluid removal, while external NPWT delivers uniform pressure-mediated tissue apposition to facilitate sustained cavity collapse. This coordinated pressure configuration enables effective dead-space control without routine pseudocapsule excision or wide soft-tissue dissection. In two illustrative cases, stable wound healing was achieved without recurrence during the available follow-up period. This dual negative-pressure approach may offer a reproducible and minimally invasive option for managing extensive or encapsulated MLLs by integrating internal evacuation with external compression to promote durable dead-space obliteration, while also potentially reducing procedure-related morbidity.
Language: English
Topic: Case Reports on Hematomas
Subfield: Surgery
Field: Medicine
Domain: Health Sciences
Open Access status: diamond
OpenAlex ID: W7166553082