A groundbreaking medical device by Northwestern scientists is likely to revolutionize the wound-healing process. Scientists have created a new affordable, flexible, and stretchable bandage that not only accelerates but also wirelessly monitors healing. Moreover, once the wound is healed, it disappears by being harmlessly absorbed into the body.
“Although it’s an electronic device, the active components that interface with the wound bed are entirely resorbable,” said Northwestern University’s John A. Rogers, who co-led the study. “As such, the materials disappear naturally after the healing process is complete, thereby avoiding any damage to the tissue that could otherwise be caused by physical extraction.”
In animal trials, this bandage was tested on diabetic ulcers in mice. Researchers observed that this innovative bandage helped it to heal over 30% faster than those without the bandage.
This electronic covering could be a game-changer for diabetics
Worldwide Millions of people suffering from the diseases like diabetes and suppressed immune systems suffer from chronic wounds. These wounds heal very slowly and at times even lead to anxiety and depression. In the worst cases, these can also lead to amputation or sometimes even death.
This Electronic bandage will not only help in speeding up wound healing but will also reduce avoidable expenses on treatment.
“When a person develops a wound, the goal is always to close that wound as quickly as possible,” said Northwestern’s Guillermo A. Ameer, co-lead on the study. “Otherwise, an open wound is susceptible to infection. And, for people with diabetes, infections are even harder to treat and more dangerous. For these patients, there is a major unmet need for cost-effective solutions that really work for them. Our new bandage is cost-effective, easy to apply, adaptable, comfortable, and efficient at closing wounds to prevent infections and further complications.”
