Plasma activated hydrogels show promise in wound care

Developed by researchers from Sheffield University and University of South Australia, the treatment involves the plasma activation of hydrogel dressings with chemical oxidants that are effective in decontaminating and aid healing in chronic wounds. The team’s findings have been published in Advanced Functional Materials.

The researchers believe the new method is a significant advance in tackling antibiotic resistance pathogens and has the potential to change the treatment of diabetic foot ulcers and internal wounds.

In a statement, co-author Professor Rob Short, Professor of Chemistry at Sheffield University, said: “In England alone between 60,000 and 75,000 people are being treated for diabetic foot ulcers per week. Infection is one of the major risks. Increasingly, many infections do not respond to normal antibiotic treatment due to resistant bacteria which results in 7,000 amputations per year.”

The benefits of cold plasma ionised gas have already been proven in clinical trials, showing it controls infection and stimulates healing. This is due to the oxidants - reactive oxygen and nitrogen species (RONS) - it produces when it mixes and activates the oxygen and nitrogen molecules in ambient air.