Researchers have developed a lightweight, inexpensive dressing that uses an electric field to speed up the healing of chronic wounds. In experiments on diabetic mice, wounds treated with the electric dressings healed 30% faster than those treated with conventional dressings. Additionally, researchers at North Carolina State University emphasize the affordability of the dressing, which costs only a few dollars per dressing. Chronic wounds, such as those of diabetics, heal slowly and are prone to relapse, leading to serious complications. Current treatments are expensive, further increasing the burden on the patient. Dr. Amay Bandodkar emphasized the team’s goal of developing a more affordable and user-friendly solution that speeds up healing and can be used at home. The dressing, called a “water-powered, electronics-free dressing” (WPED), features flexible electrodes on one side and a small, biocompatible battery on the other. When a drop of water is added, the battery is activated and generates an electric field for several hours, which is critical for promoting healing. The flexible electrodes can conform to the irregular shapes of chronic wounds and effectively direct the electric field from the wound edges to the center. Tests on diabetic mice showed that the dressing accelerated wound closure, promoted blood vessel formation and reduced inflammation – all signs of improved healing. The researchers now plan to test the dressings on humans and refine the technology for clinical use, with the goal of stabilizing and extending the duration of the electric field for practical patient applications.
Scientists develop intelligent plaster that heals injuries 30% faster than conventional bandages
