3D printing bandages reduce wound healing time and wirelessly send monitoring data

Release date: 2017-09-29

Researchers at the VTT Technology Research Center in Finland are developing 3D printed materials using cellulose nanofibers to create a 3D wound care product that can monitor wound conditions for hospital use. These materials combine with printed electronics to bring the next level of healthcare. This research has been published in ACS Applied Materials & Interfaces.

Although it may take some time to get approved for use on patients, researchers have tested these new materials on non-medical products such as textiles and upholstery.

The appeal of cellulose lies in its functional properties. For example, with this material, VTT researchers believe they can attach proteins to 3D printed adhesive bandages to help promote the growth of skin cells around the wound. In addition, the wound area remains viable without forming hard scar tissue.

Cellulose nanofibers are well-suited for developing 3D printing pastes because they have a high level of mechanical strength and have a positive impact on viscosity and biodegradability, the researchers said. In general, the use of cellulose affects the moisture resistance, rigidity and flexibility of 3D printed structures. Currently, they have successfully produced a 3D structure with a liquid absorption efficiency that is three times that of the commonly used alginate fiber dressing. By aspirating the moisture in the wound, these materials can shorten the healing time.

Surprisingly, this 3D printed wound care product can even be integrated into electronic components. The prototype of VTT combines nanocellulose, a protein for wound care and printed electronic components. Using a silver ink, the researchers printed the measuring electrodes onto a film made of polyurethane-nanocellulose, which provided a connection point for a wireless FlexNode reader also developed by VTT.

A FlexNode reader that connects gauze to the wound and the patient is a real-life example of next-generation healthcare technology that transfers temperature or bioimpedance data from the wound to the hospital computer, allowing the medical staff to continue to understand the patient's recovery status, if infected Or other signs of complications, they will know in time.

(Compiled from 3ders.org)

Source: Tiangongshe

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