Heidrich J., Oh K.W.
The State University of New York at Buffalo, US
Keywords: biofeedback, microfluidics, wound healing
This paper will discuss how incorporating a biofeedback sensor into an electrical stimulation bandage used on chronic ulcers will improve the healing process. Current wound healing devices, and specifically wearable ones, are an open loop system that incorporates electrical stimulation with hopes of a positive result, but creating a closed loop system would improve results, especially on chronic ulcers. The human skin is the largest organ in the body that is dynamic and naturally absorbs Na+ ions and secrets Cl- ions when a wound occurs, making the area under the skin positively charged. The flexible microfluidics-integrated organic transistor use printers to generate an array making it possible to create a real-time biofeedback sensor that can be integrated with a wound healing device. Sodium and potassium ions (Na+ and K+) are important electrolytes in biological processes, including control of the hydration status, nerve and muscle impulse transmission, osmotic pressure balance and pH regulation. By monitoring the electrolyte imbalance and the hydration status caused by a wound, electrical simulation can be adjusted as needed to heal the wound site. The Organic Electrochemical Transistors (OECTs) with a Poly(imide) (PI) polymer microfluidic membrane would be able to monitor the hydration level at the wound bed and the rate of Cl- ionic movement as an external electrical signal is applied. By monitoring the hydration level and Cl- ion movement would improve the wound healing rate for chronic ulcers.
Journal: TechConnect Briefs
Volume: TechConnect Briefs 2021
Published: October 18, 2021
Pages: 188 - 191
Industry sector: Medical & Biotech
Topics: Biomaterials, Diagnostics & Bioimaging
ISBN: 978-0-578-99550-2