The technique of pulsed lavage involves delivering an irrigating solution at a pressure by means of a powered device. There has been some debate in the literature concerning the optimal pressure, but a pressure of around 10–15 psi has been shown to effectively remove debris, decrease bacterial colonization and prevent clinical infection. Pulsed lavage is indicated for cleansing or debriding wounds due to arterial insufficiency, venous insufficiency, diabetes, pressure, small burns, surgery, or trauma and is also appropriate for tunneling or undermining wounds. However, the technique should not be used near exposed arteries, tendons, nerves, capsules, or bones, and should not be used in body cavities, facial wounds, on recent grafts or surgical procedures, or on actively bleeding wounds. Furthermore, caution should be used in patients taking anticoagulants, insensate patients, and deep tunneling wounds
These devices are typically purchased by clinical institutions for use by a licensed provider.
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