Negative pressure wound therapy (NPWT), often called a wound vac, uses a small pump to apply controlled negative pressure to a wound through a sealed dressing. Fluid is drawn away into a canister. This guide explains the main parts of an NPWT system and what to check when buying NPWT machines, canisters and dressings in Australia.
NPWT should only be used as prescribed and supervised by a qualified health professional. This guide is general product information, not clinical advice.
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See our range of negative pressure wound therapy systems, pumps and canisters. All prices include GST, with Australia-wide delivery.
How an NPWT System Works
A typical NPWT system has four parts:
- Therapy unit (pump): creates and monitors the negative pressure.
- Dressing: usually a foam or gauze filler placed in or over the wound.
- Drape and connection pad: a transparent adhesive film that seals the dressing, with a pad and tubing that connect to the pump.
- Canister: collects fluid drawn from the wound and is replaced when full.
The pump maintains the pressure set by the clinician, in either continuous or intermittent mode, and alarms if there is a leak, a blockage or a full canister.
Types of NPWT Machines
Portable Therapy Units
Portable, battery-powered units let patients move around during therapy and are often used in hospital wards, community care and at home. The 3M ActiV.A.C. therapy unit is an example of a portable system.
Compact and Single-Patient Systems
Smaller systems such as the RHS01 mini NPWT device are lightweight and suit smaller wounds and shorter therapy periods.
Bedside and Clinic Units
Larger units, such as our RECO NPWT system with pump, are designed for clinic or bedside use and usually support larger canisters.
What to Check Before You Buy
Pressure Range and Modes
Check the pressure range the unit supports and whether it offers continuous and intermittent modes. The settings used are always decided by the treating clinician.
Canister Size and Compatibility
Canisters come in different volumes, for example 140 ml to 500 ml. Larger canisters need changing less often but make the unit heavier. Always use a canister made for your specific pump. See our ActiV.A.C. 300 ml canister with gel and 500 ml NPWT canister.
Alarms
Look for clear alarms for leaks, blockages, full canisters and low battery. These help staff and patients respond quickly.
Battery Life and Portability
For mobile patients, check the battery run time, the weight of the unit and whether it comes with a carry case or strap.
Dressings and Consumables
Make sure dressings, drapes and tubing are available for the system you choose, and keep enough stock for regular dressing changes.
Canister Care and Replacement
- Replace canisters when full or as directed by the clinician and the manufacturer’s instructions.
- Canisters are single-use. Dispose of used canisters according to your facility’s clinical waste procedures.
- Check that the canister clicks firmly into place so the system seals properly.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between NPWT and a wound vac?
They are the same thing. “Wound vac” is a common name for negative pressure wound therapy.
Can a wound vac be used at home?
Portable NPWT units are often used at home, under the care of a health professional who sets up the therapy and changes the dressings.
How often are NPWT canisters changed?
Canisters are changed when full, or at the interval the clinician or manufacturer recommends.
Do you deliver NPWT equipment across Australia?
Yes. We deliver Australia-wide. All prices include GST. Contact us for international shipping.
Browse our NPWT machines and canisters, or contact us if you need help finding the right canister for your pump.