One irony about treating chronic wounds, according to New Atlas, is that when the dressing is removed to examine the wound, the healing process of the wound is often affected. A new type of "smart bandage" is designed with this in mind because it can transmit wound data to an app on a clinician's mobile device.
Currently, scientists at the National University of Singapore are developing this electron-enhanced bandage technology, which is called VeCare. The actual disposable bandage itself is made up of four layers. The underlying layer clings to the wound, followed by a flat microfluidic collection device, a flexible electrochemical immune sensor, and a breathable protective outer layer.
When the bandage is pressed against the wound, the liquid from the wound is sucked into the microfluidic device by capillary action. When a separate reusable, battery-powered chip is inserted into a wire that extends from the immunosensor, the latter automatically begins analyzing the liquid.
Within 15 minutes, it is able to measure the pH and temperature of the wound site, which in turn can be used to determine if any infection has occurred. The system is also able to identify the type of bacteria present, as well as the level of inflammation. All this data is transmitted wirelessly to an app on a nearby smartphone or tablet.
While a doctor or clinician can perform a VeCare test, it is also possible for patients to do the test in their own home, saving unnecessary clinic trips. In both cases, if the application shows that all the wound parameters are satisfactory, the dressing can be left in place so that the wound is undisturbed.
Researchers have used VeCare to conduct successful clinical trials in patients with chronic venous leg ulcers. The technology is currently being further developed to meet regulatory standards and considerations for mass production.
The paper on the study, led by Professor Lim Chwee Teck and Dr Gao Yuji, was recently published in the journal Science Advances.