Researchers in Switzerland have developed a new type of smart bandage capable of accelerating wound healing by up to four times compared to traditional bandages, through gentle electrical stimulation without the use of drugs and without leaving significant scars.
This bandage relies on simulating the natural electrical signals in the human body, which play a crucial role in guiding cells during the tissue repair process.
The dressing contains microelectrodes that generate low-intensity electric fields, stimulating skin cells to migrate faster, promoting the formation of new blood vessels, and reducing bacterial activity at the wound site.
In laboratory experiments, wounds treated with this dressing showed the ability to heal within days instead of weeks. The material is characterized by being thin, flexible, and lightweight, and it operates with a small biocompatible battery activated by just a drop of water, making it simple to use and suitable for home care.
The great importance of this technology lies in the treatment of chronic wounds such as diabetic ulcers, which are often slow to heal and lead to serious complications. By accelerating recovery without medications, this dressing may help reduce the risk of infection, limit scarring, and lower long-term healthcare costs.
Although clinical trials on humans have not yet begun, current results suggest the potential for a qualitative shift in wound care, moving from passive protection to active healing based on the body's natural electrical language.
Source: Nature Biomedical Engineering
