Prevena incision management system for closed surgical incisions

The technology described in this briefing is Prevena. It is a single-use technology for the management of closed surgical incisions that may be at increased risk of infection.

The innovative aspects are that Prevena has a multilayer, customisable design, LED display and vacuum-assisted closure connector intended to provide continuous negative pressure to any closed surgical incision.

The intended place in therapy would be as an alternative to standard care for managing closed surgical incisions in people at risk of developing surgical site complications. Negative pressure wound therapy is not standard care in the NHS.

The main points from the evidence summarised in this briefing are from 7 studies including 1 study done in the UK. They show that Prevena is more effective at reducing complications than standard care in people with closed surgical incisions.

Key uncertainties around the evidence or technology are that it is unclear if Prevena is more effective than standard care for people with specific risk factors (such as diabetes or renal insufficiency) associated with surgical site complications. Further studies and analysis of subgroups would be helpful in determining this.

The cost of Prevena is £299 or £351 per unit depending on size (exclusive of VAT). The resource impact may be less than standard care if surgical site complications are avoided. The resource impact compared to other negative pressure wound therapy devices was not considered in this briefing.