Scientists create smart bandage that treats chronic wounds

The bandage is comprised of wireless circuitry that utilises temperature sensors to monitor the progression of wound healing. [Courtesy]

Dr Geoffrey Gurtner and Zhenan Bao, leading a team of researchers at Stanford University, have achieved groundbreaking advancement in the treatment of chronic wounds.

Their remarkable discovery, published in the journal Nature Biotechnology introduces an intelligent wireless bandage.

This innovative creation combines the power of wireless electrical stimulation with biosensors. This enables the bandage to monitor the healing process of wounds in real-time while simultaneously administering treatment.

With its potential to revolutionise wound care, this development brings new hope to patients and healthcare professionals alike. The bandage is comprised of wireless circuitry that utilises temperature sensors to monitor the progression of wound healing.

If the wound is inadequately healed or an infection is detected, the sensors inform a central processing unit to apply additional electrical stimulation across the wound bed to expedite tissue closure and mitigate infection.

The researchers were able to track sensor data in real-time on a smartphone without the necessity for wires.

The device has demonstrated promise in accelerating tissue repair by promoting faster closure of wounds. It also increases new blood flow to injured tissue and enhances skin recovery by significantly reducing scar formation.

It could be of use for individuals suffering from infections, diseases such as diabetes and suppressed immune systems which often lead to slow wound healing processes.

In Kenya, diabetes is a burgeoning health concern. This novel technology could have a significant impact on the treatment of chronic wounds.

According to the International Diabetes Federation, an estimated 1.8 million adults in Kenya have diabetes. This number is expected to rise in the coming years.

Diabetes can result in slow wound healing and increased risk of infection rendering this new technology particularly relevant to Kenyans.