The Use of PrevenaTM Incision Management System on Clean Closed Sternal Midline Incisions in Subjects at High Risk for Surgical Site Occurrences.

The Prevena™ IMS is intended to manage the environment of closed surgically incision and surrounding intact skin for patients with an increased risk for developing post-operative complications such as infection.The purpose of this study is to compare the use of Prevena™ Incision Management System (IMS) versus standard wound care for the incision in subjects undergoing a sternal midline incision (sternotomy). The subjects targetted for the study are at high risk for surgical complications (like infections) around the environment of the incision.

The Prevena™ IMS is a small portable device, which consists of a mild vacuum unit that delivers negative pressure and a dressing that is intended for use over closed incisions after surgery. It is used for a minimum of 4 days up to a maximum of 7 days. This system is commercially available and has a CE mark, which means that it is approved for the use on the European market. It is intended to be applied immediately post sternotomy surgery on a closed clean incision.

The results of this study could contribute to a better and faster healing of the incision.

The study is conducted in The Netherlands, Germany, Austria and Czech Republic.