An intelligent patch has been developed that monitors chronic wounds and accelerates their healing by administering drugs and weak electric fields in a controlled manner: especially useful for diabetic ulcers and burns, it has already been tested on animal models by researchers at the California Institute of Technology (Caltech ), who publish the study results in the journal Science Advances.
The new smart patch is made of a flexible and elastic polymer that contains electronic components and drugs. The electronics allow the sensor to monitor the wound by evaluating molecules such as uric acid or lactate and conditions such as pH level or temperature, which can indicate the presence of inflammation or an infection. The data thus collected can be transmitted wirelessly to a nearby computer, tablet or smartphone for review by the patient or a doctor. At the same time, the patch can deliver an antibiotic or other drug stored inside the bandage directly into the wound to treat inflammation or infection. It can even apply a weak electric field to the wound to stimulate tissue regeneration and speed up healing.
In laboratory tests on animal models, the smart patch has been shown to provide real-time updates on the animal’s wound and metabolic condition, promoting healing of chronic infected wounds similar to those in humans.
The researchers consider these promising results and intend to continue their studies in collaboration with the Keck School of Medicine at the University of Southern California to further refine the patch, make it more stable and test it on patients.
Source: Ansa
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