‘Smart Wound Patch’ Poised to Detect and Prevent Chronic Infection
Researchers at the University of Rhode Island have developed a prototype smart wound patch that detects early signs of infection in chronic wounds—offering a potential game-changer in preventing complications like sepsis or amputation.
The flexible, bandage-like patch uses integrated sensors to monitor biomarkers in wound fluid, including pH and temperature changes. These early shifts often indicate the onset of bacterial infection or delayed healing.
Key Features:
- Non-invasive, continuous monitoring: The patch uses real-time biosensors to detect wound changes without disturbing the dressing.
- Wireless data transmission: Results can be sent to a smartphone or clinician dashboard, enabling timely intervention.
- Early warning capability: By catching inflammatory trends before visible symptoms arise, it may help clinicians avoid more invasive treatments.
The lead researcher, Kunal Mankodiya, PhD, director of the Wearable Biosensing Lab at URI, envisions applications in diabetic foot ulcers, surgical wounds, and pressure injuries—where early detection of infection is critical to preventing chronicity and escalation.
Clinical Implications: With further testing and development, smart wound technologies like this could reduce hospitalizations, improve outcomes in hard-to-heal wounds, and decrease long-term care costs. The team is working toward FDA approval and future commercial deployment.
Keywords: Kunal Mankodiya, smart wound patch, chronic wounds, infection detection, wearable biosensors, University of Rhode Island