Circulatory disorders, diabetes or lying in the same
position for extended periods can all lead to chronic wounds that
do not heal. There are hardly any effective treatment options. A
materials science research team from Kiel University (CAU),
together with colleagues from the University Medical Center
Schleswig-Holstein (UKSH), Harvard Medical School, U.S., and
Dankook University in South Korea, has developed a wound patch with
enhanced healing functions which can be individually adapted for
each patient. The 3D-printed patch has antibacterial properties,
supplies the wound with oxygen and moisture, and supports the
formation of new tissue. The properties are activated and
controlled by irradiation. The scientists from materials science
and medicine recently presented their concept in the scientific
journal Advanced Functional Materials, where it featured as the
cover story.