Change bandages at least once daily. More frequent bandage changes may be necessary if the wound has heavy discharge, or the bandage becomes soiled or partially removed by the MWD. Once wound discharge is reduced and a healthy granulation bed has formed, bandage changes become less frequent, generally every 2-3 days.
Any MWD with a bandage applied must be prevented from chewing at the bandage. An e-collar or plastic bucket with the bottom cut out can be used to prevent self-trauma and is attached to the dog’s collar as an effective prevention practice.
NEGATIVE PRESSURE WOUND THERAPY
Negative pressure wound therapy (NPWT) has proven a viable treatment modality for wounds in dogs. Consultation with a veterinary surgeon will ensure appropriate application and management. Heavy sedation of the MWD to prevent disruption of the dressing is sometimes required. See Figure 3 and Figure 4. In most cases, application of NPWT can be delayed until the MWD is medically evacuated to a Role 3 veterinary facility or out of theater for long-term care. If NPWT is applied, -125 mmHg on a continuous mode is the typical setting for open, granulating wounds