This wearable bioelectronic system, tested in animal models, may eventually improve monitoring and administer treatments such as controlled drug release and electrical stimulation for people with chronic wounds. (Credit: Wei Gao, California Institute of Technology)

A team of researchers is developing a series of cutting-edge technologies to transform wound care, including smart bandages that would automatically sense and respond to changing conditions inside a wound. The high-tech dressings would provide continuous data on healing and potential complications, including infections or abnormal inflammation, and could deliver medications or other treatments in real time.

While acute wounds progress through a typical process of injury, inflammation and healing, chronic wounds are more complex and less predictable. They carry a higher risk of infection, can take longer to heal, and may lead to amputation or life-threatening complications, such as sepsis.

One potential remedy is new smart bandage technology that can aid — and even participate in — the healing process. Instead of applying a passive dressing to a patient’s wound, clinicians could soon use wireless technology that detects inflammation, infections or problems with blood flow, then alerts patients and health care providers via Bluetooth while administering real-time treatment.

Smart bandages are built using a variety of cutting-edge materials, including bioelectronic materials, which can help with healing by delivering electrical stimulation to tissues and cells. Many incorporate advanced hydrogels, which are soft, flexible, and capable of storing and releasing drugs in response to pH, temperature or other environmental factors.

Source 

Topics:
Biosensors Medical Smart Patches and Bandages Wearables Wearables

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