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When you make a small cut or a small scratch, you probably get a regular bandage, which is usually nothing more than an adhesive tape containing a tiny band of sterile padding. It's a simple design that has stood the test of time, but researchers at the Harvard Wyss Institute believe they have developed an even better solution.
Researchers have taken inspiration from nature to design a new type of wound cover that not only speeds up the healing process, but can also reduce scarring. Inspired by the fragile skin of animal embryos that can heal themselves without leaving scars, the new dressing is of an impressive technicality, but it is also incredibly simple to use.
The bandages use a heat-activated hydrogel that not only covers a cut or nick, it contracts and tightens the edges of the wound. It is designed to operate at temperatures of approximately 90 degrees Fahrenheit, that is, it is activated by body heat alone, narrowing slowly and keeping the edges of the wound in place to promote healing.
The contraction of the dressing also helps to secure it to the skin with a strength greater than that of a standard adhesive bandage. To fight against the infection, silver nanoparticles are dispersed in the dressing, naturally destroying the microbes and protecting the skin during its healing.
"The AAD has been linked to pig skin with an adhesive strength more than ten times greater than that of a Band-Aid® and prevented the bacteria from multiplying. This technology is therefore already much better than the most commonly used wound protection products, even before taking into account its wound closure properties, "Benjamin Freedman, Ph.D., head of labor, said in a statement .
The team still has work to do before the commercialization of the new bandage technology, but intends to conduct additional testing and studies before marketing.
Source of Image: Wyss Institute at Harvard University
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