Smart bandage monitors and treats chronic wounds

The technology, described in the journal Small, uses sensors to monitor pH and temperature – two key indicators of the infection and inflammation found in non-healing wounds.

A microprocessor reads the data from these sensors and can release drugs on demand from its carriers by heating the gel. The entire construct is attached to a transparent medical tape to form a flexible bandage under 3mm thick. According to the team, components were selected to keep the bandage low cost and disposable, except for the microprocessor, which can be re-used.

Wounds from burns, diabetes, and other medical conditions can overwhelm the regenerative capabilities of the skin and lead to persistent infections and amputations.

Patients are often older, non-ambulatory, and limited in their ability to provide self-care, yet non-healing wounds are typically treated in an outpatient setting or at home. The smart bandages could provide real-time monitoring and delivery of treatment with limited intervention from the patient or caregivers.