Researchers at the University of South Australia have developed an innovative treatment for chronic wounds involving plasma-activated hydrogel therapy. They are the consequences shared In the journal Advanced Functional Materials (AFM).
It is stated that antibiotics and special dressings containing silver are generally used in the treatment of chronic wounds. However, silver can be toxic, and the resistance of some microorganisms to antibiotics has been increasing recently.
The new therapy method involves the application of oxidizing agents, specifically plasma-activating hydrogel dressings created using a chemical combination of reactive oxygen and nitrogen species. Plasma, or ionized gas, consists of charged particles such as electrons and ions.
Preliminary tests of the development showed that this mixture has antibacterial properties. It also supports accelerated tissue regeneration. The team found that this approach was effective in killing the common bacteria E. coli and Pseudomonas aeruginosa.
Researchers explained that one of the main applications of the development could be the treatment of diabetic foot syndrome. This is one of the complications of diabetes, which is characterized by the appearance of long-term non-healing wounds, scratches, calluses on one or both feet.
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