KCI Introduces Next-Generation V.A.C.Via Therapy System

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration has given marketing clearance to Kinetic Concepts Inc.’s (KCI) next-generation V.A.C.Via Negative Pressure Wound Therapy System.

The V.A.C.Via Therapy System is a single patient use, ultra-portable V.A.C. Therapy System that provides simplified wound care for patients with moderate- to low-exudating wounds. It features a diaphragm pump for faster draw down, longer battery life and higher leak rate threshold than the original device.

In addition to providing all the benefits of V.A.C. Therapy, V.A.C.Via Therapy patients can experience V.A.C. Therapy using a discreet, portable device; clinicians have easy access to an off-the-shelf, single-patient-use device; and hospitals potentially can reap the benefits of reducing costs, the company claims. 

“We’ve listened to the feedback from our customers and patients and have taken our original system and enhanced it to better meet their needs,” said Jim Cunniff, senior vice president, Americas, KCI. “The V.A.C.Via Therapy Unit is designed to help patients return to their normal lifestyle, while receiving up to seven days of negative pressure wound therapy in a compact, portable unit.”

The V.A.C.Via Therapy System can be used in an acute setting for patients transitioning home and who are in need of continued V.A.C. Therapy. The product made its U.S. debut in early December.

Kinetic Concepts is a global medical technology company that develops and commercializes healing solutions for customers and patients in more than 65 countries worldwide. KCI, along with LifeCell Corporation and Systagenix Wound Management, form one globally diversified wound care, biologics and regenerative medicine company headquartered in San Antonio, Texas.