Managing wound pain in patients with vacuum-assisted closure devices.

The etiology and management of wound pain for patients with vacuum-assisted closure devices can be complex. Patients, such as the patient with necrotizing fasciitis described in this case study, may experience all three types of pain described in the Chronic Wound Pain Experience Model--acute noncyclic, acute cyclic, and chronic. Strategies that include local wound management to reduce all three types of pain and holistic psychological care to reduce the ache and anguish that may accompany dressing change procedures may help provide comfort and reduce pain and suffering.