Smart Bandage

About Smart Bandage:

• What it is? It is a soft stretchable polymer that helps the bandage maintain contact with and stick to the skin.
• The bioelectronics system consists of biosensors that monitor biomarkers in the wound exudate.
• Data collected by the bandage is passed to a flexible printed circuit board, which relays it wirelessly to a smartphone or tablet for review by a physician.
• A pair of electrodes control drug release from a hydrogel layer as well as stimulate the wound to encourage tissue regrowth.

How does it work?

• Biosensors determine the wound status by tracking the chemical composition of the exudates, which changes as the wound heals.
• Additional sensors monitor the pH and temperature for real-time information about the infection and inflammation.
• A pair of electrodes, the same electrodes that stimulate the tissue, control the release of drugs from a hydrogel layer.
• The wireless nature of the device sidesteps the problems of existing electrical stimulation devices, which usually require bulky equipment and wired connections, limiting their clinical use.

 

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Q1) What are Electrodes?

Electrodes are conductive materials or components that are used to establish electrical contact with non-metallic materials, electrolytes, or electronic devices. They play a crucial role in various applications involving the transfer of electrical current or the measurement of electrical signals.

Source: Explained | A new ‘smart bandage’ raises the bar for treating chronic wounds