Clever strings will help control wound healing

07.06.2016

A group of scientists and engineers from the University of Tafos, Massachusetts, have developed a new suture material in which nano-sensors, electronics and microfluids are present.

These threads allow you to monitor the patient's condition after the operation and to warn the doctor in time about the adverse wound healing process, as a result of which sepsis can be avoided.

Sensors embedded in threads, wirelessly transmit information to special diagnostic devices or smartphones. They track indicators such as pressure, strain, stress, temperature, pH and glucose. All these data help the doctor determine exactly how the wound heals.

The new suture material is three-dimensional, which allows it to be used for complex fractures and implant placement. Other similar materials have a two-dimensional structure and are applied only on flat surfaces. Thus, “smart threads” can be used in surgery, as a suture material and as “intelligent” bandages to monitor wound healing.

Studies of the new suture material are continuing, and scientists have yet to figure out its biocompatibility with the tissues of the body. But already received positive results of testing this material. They indicate that the use of smart filaments greatly simplifies the recovery of patients after surgery.

Valeria Sokolova, news editor