Wound VAC Cost
Last Updated on June 14, 2021 | Written by CPA Alec Pow
First Published on June 14, 2021 | Content Reviewed by 
CFA Alexander Popivker
The wound VAC is a portable sucking device that can be used to medicate progressive bed sores, slow healing wounds, and second-degree burns. Using a pump, it draws excess fluids from the deep wounds or bed sores which are very difficult to heal on their own into an enclosed chamber where they are drained away naturally without harming any surrounding tissue. This type of therapy also has many benefits including reducing scarring in burn victims.
How much does a wound VAC cost?
A wound VAC will usually cost around $30,000 if you were to purchase one, but this is rather rare since most people will only rent this device during their recovery period. If you are more interested in renting one, you should know that the price will usually be anywhere from $100 to $250 per day or close to $2,500+ per week.
The severity of your wound will often dictate the duration and cost of the treatment. For instance, a smaller or shallower sore may require fewer treatments with shorter recovery periods than larger wounds that have deeper sores.
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PaulaHenry1 on HubPages.com said that the rental fees for a wound VAC range from $100 to $150 per day, but according to a HealthBoards thread, there are other additional expenses associated with this treatment because they don’t include the cost of supplies and medication. These can be upwards of $2,000, sometimes even reaching $15,000 depending on each independent situation.
Some people may be covered by their health insurance for most of the expenses for this device, but you should always check before proceeding to see what is and isn’t included.
The wound VAC, for the most part, is qualified to be reimbursed by Medicare and covered by many insurance plans as a valid form of therapy. However, some companies will only cover up to one surgery that requires you to use the wound VAC – then they’ll pay a lot less if there will be more surgeries following it.
Wound VAC details
To help with the healing process, a Vacuum Assisted Closure (VAC) machine is used to suck out bacteria and blood from open wounds. This device utilizes an airtight seal to stop bleeding by covering up wounds then sucking fluids away until they heal on their own. They’re most commonly found in hospitals as well as veterinary clinics when treating animals. The Wound Vacuum-Assisted Closure (WVAC). To install this machine, first clean and sterilize your wound or bed sore then create a piece of sponge to fit inside it. The sponge is secured into place through clear film and tubing will hang out so you connect it up to the WVAC.
When it comes to wound vacs, there are many options. Popular companies include Medela, Atmos, Pensar Medical, Genadyne, and Kalypto; with these brands, you can either run the vacuum continuously or intermittently depending on your needs for that type of wound. A continuous application is best when dealing with more serious injuries while an intermittent one may be preferred for less severe wounds in order to prevent over-drying of skin areas around a sore spot.
Any additional expenses to consider?
A home-based patient with a wound VAC may need to have wound dressings changed every few days, and will require someone who is licensed. However, you can save money by having the dressings changed on your own if it’s not too difficult for you to do so. Additional accessories such as vac sponges, dressings, and tape should be budgeted in at about $100 per month.
Important tips to consider
Wound VACs are a medically proven way to heal wounds and bedsores. They use negative pressure, which promotes cell replenishment while also keeping bacteria at bay by using suction. Studies show that wound VACs significantly help patients heal faster and reduce infection; however, there is no risk of harming tissue because the machine operates under low levels of vacuum.
A wound VAC is an excellent treatment option for wounds of all types, but those with chronic and deep cases will see the most benefit from this procedure.
The use of a wound VAC in developed nations is more affordable and readily available, but it’s still not accessible to those living in poverty. There are also no conclusive studies about the device because it is so new on the medical scene- there have only been small trials that show promise for wounds with diabetics’ leg ulcers- however, these devices could be helpful for other patients as well.
Any way to save some money?
If you are caring for someone who is using a wound vac, consider taking charge of the dressings yourself instead of relying on the licensed professional. Rental machines have numerous benefits. Renting will save you more money in comparison to outright purchasing one and they typically come with all sorts of additional equipment as well such as bandages or gauze.
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