Better than a simple plaster.
In an attempt to alleviate the slightest infection, researchers at Rhodes Island University have developed a new type of dressing.
A plaster 2.0 that integrates nanosensors composed of single-walled carbon nanotubes.
These nanosensors are sensitive to hydrogen peroxide, a substance produced by white blood cells in the presence of pathogenic bacteria, synonymous with the onset of infection.
Better to prevent
If a certain amount of this substance is detected, the smart bandage changes colors and sends some kind of signal to the accompanying miniaturized portable device.
This can then warn the person that his wound is infected via a notification on his smartphone and that medical care is necessary.
The main objective of this dressing 2.0 is to prevent infections and to take care of them as quickly as possible.
Treating infections as early as possible will prevent more invasive medical care, as well as medication to fight more stubborn infections.
For now, the researchers have mainly focused on small plasters, but they assure that their concept of bandage equipped with nanosensors could work with larger dressings.
Before this particularly promising type of bandage can be used - especially for diabetics whose bodies take longer to heal - researchers at Rhodes Island University will still have to perform many other tests.
World
Coronavirus in India: What is the “black fungus” that affects patients infected with the virus?
A seaweed dressing
Innovation
Health
High-Tech
Science
Medicine
Infection