It is made of a flexible and stretchable polymer containing embedded electronics and medication
Scientists from the California Institute of Technology have developed a “smart” wound dressing that supports tissue regeneration and controls the healing process, reports the site of the educational institution.
In most cases, when someone cuts, scrapes, burns, or gets another wound, the body takes care of itself and heals itself. However, diseases such as diabetes can interfere with the healing process and lead to wounds that do not heal and can become infected and fester.
These chronic wounds are not only debilitating for the people who suffer from them, but also a burden on healthcare systems.
A smart dressing developed by specialists from the California Institute of Technology could make the treatment of such wounds easier, more effective and cheaper.
The “smart” bandage is made of a flexible and stretchable polymer containing embedded electronics and medication. Inside it are sensors that monitor the patient’s condition (temperature, inflammation, presence of infection).
The dressing can be connected to a smartphone or computer to transmit real-time data on the condition of the wound. It can also release antibiotics and apply a weak electric field to stimulate its healing.
The developers note that tests with animal models have yielded promising results. Their next goal is to perfect the technology and test the “smart” bandage on humans.
Photo: California Institute of Technology website
