VeCare technology transmits wound data

Currently being developed by scientists at the National University of Singapore, VeCare is a new electronic dressing technology. A fine example of what ehealth can do for patients.

VeCare takes care of our wounds

One of the ironies of treating chronic wounds is that removing the dressing to check the wound often delays the healing process. VeCare is a new kind of “smart bandage” that has been designed with this problem in mind. It transmits wound data to an application installed on a clinician’s mobile device.

The single-use bandage itself is made up of four layers. There is a bottom layer that sits over the wound, followed by a flat, microfluidic collection device. Then there is also a flexible electrochemical immunosensor and breathable protective outer layer.

A very smart process

As the bandage rests on the wound, fluid from the wound is drawn into the microfluidic device by capillary action. When a separate chip, powered by a reusable battery, is plugged into a lead from the immunosensor, the latter automatically begins to analyze the fluid.

Within 15 minutes, VeCare is able to measure the pH and temperature of the wound site; This helps determine if there is an infection. The system is also able to identify the types of bacteria present; as well as the level of inflammation. All of this data is transmitted wirelessly to an app on a nearby smartphone or tablet.

So, while doctors or clinicians can perform the VeCare tests, it is also possible that patients can do it themselves at health home. This would save them unnecessary trips to a clinic. In both cases, if the application shows that all wound parameters are satisfactory. The dressing can simply be left in place, leaving the wound intact.

VeCare already in clinical trials

Finally, VeCare has already been the subject of a conclusive clinical trial conducted on patients suffering from chronic venous leg ulcers. The technology is currently under development, in order to meet regulatory standards; and mass production considerations.

An article on this research, conducted by Prof. Lim Chwee Teck and Dr. Gao Yuji, was recently published in the journal Science Advances. The system is shown in the following video.