VEPTR/Spine Growing Instrumentation Procedures Clinical Pathway, ICU and Inpatient – Incision Management

VEPTR/Spine Growing Instrumentation Procedures Clinical Pathway — ICU and Inpatient

Incision Management

The goal of wound management is to keep the incision clean, dry and closed. This promotes healing and reduces the risk of infection. Children should be encouraged to avoid disrupting
the wound.

  • Ortho APP/resident on call will perform the first dressing change
  • Nursing can perform dressing changes as needed after initial dressing change, unless
    otherwise ordered
  • Any wound problems reported to orthopedic resident on call or ortho APP
Surgical Drains
  • Ortho resident/APP to discontinue when drain produces < 30 mL/24 hrs or when indicated by surgeon
Surgical Dressing
  • Mepilex Border Ag to remain intact until POD#7
  • Notify ortho if dressing soiled prior to day 7 and will perform change
  • Consider first dressing change at time of discharge
Incisional VAC Dressing
  • Leave intact until POD#5 or sooner if otherwise ready for discharge
  • Mepilex Border Ag placed onto incision
  • Change Mepilex dressing every 2-3 days or immediately if soiled