Smart bandage reads data, releases drug for treatment

A new type of smart bandage is being developed that may help providers track and treat wounds more efficiently. The bandage has been under development for more than five years, Sameer Sonkusale, Ph.D., professor of electrical and computer engineering at Tufts University's School of Engineering and corresponding co-author for the study, told McKnight's. While the next step is to test the bandage in a clinical context, his team's latest research shows promise for the smart system over traditional dressings. Since it has pH and temperature sensors, along with antibiotic drug delivery, the bandage offers hope for hard-to-treat wounds. “Bed sores and chronic wounds are a big problem. Sensors that are built in can mitigate the effect of these chronic wounds, and could reduce the incidences,” he said. For existing wounds, “you'd be able to intervene at the right time.”