Bhubaneswar: National Institute of Technology Rourkela researchers have developed an innovative smart wound dressing that aims to reduce infection, minimize pain during dressing changes, and accelerate the healing process.
The advanced dressing combines chitosan-coated gauze with a nanofibrous layer infused with curcumin, the natural bioactive compound found in turmeric known for its antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties. This dual-layer design helps protect wounds from infection while creating a favorable environment for tissue repair.
Unlike conventional dressings that often stick to the wound and cause pain and tissue damage during removal, the new smart dressing prevents adhesion, reducing trauma to newly formed tissue. It also provides a sustained release of curcumin, allowing continuous therapeutic action and reducing the need for frequent dressing replacements.
Researchers say the fabrication process is simple, scalable, and cost-effective, making it suitable for large-scale production. The team is now preparing to file a patent for the technology and plans to collaborate with industry partners to bring the innovation closer to clinical and commercial use.
The development has the potential to improve wound care, particularly for patients with chronic wounds, burns, diabetic ulcers, and post-surgical injuries, while making advanced wound treatment more affordable and accessible.
