An apparatus and method for the controlled acceleration, and/or retardation of the body's inflammatory response comprises a foam pad for insertion into a wound site, a drape covering the foam pad, and a thermal control element configured to be placed proximate the wound site. The foam pad is placed in fluid communication with a vacuum source for promotion of the controlled acceleration or retardation of the body's inflammatory response. The thermal control element has a pair of flexible sheets for receiving a thermally conductive fluid.