Customize hydrogel masks
Newswise — One of the challenges in treating burn victims is the frequency of dressing changes, which can be extremely painful.
To alleviate these and other issues, University of Waterloo scientists have developed a novel wound dressing substance utilizing cutting-edge polymers. This fresh dressing may expedite burn patients' recovery and hold promise for administering drugs in cancer therapy, as well as within the beauty sector.
Dr. Boxin Zhao, a professor in Waterloo's Chemical Engineering Department, highlighted the potential of 3D printing to tailor the shape of wound dressings for burn victims. Additionally, Dr. Zhao's team has made substantial progress in creating intelligent hydrogel materials that serve as reusable dressings. "One crucial feature of our material is its refined surface adhesion," explained Dr. Zhao. "The material adheres seamlessly to the skin and can be easily removed. Achieving this delicate balance of adhesion is crucial."
During the development of the dressing, the team of researchers utilized 3D scanning technology to capture precise measurements of a patient's face and body parts. This enabled them to create customized dressings that perfectly conform to individual needs. This level of customization ensures optimal contact with surfaces such as noses and fingers, making the dressing an ideal choice for personalized wound care in burn patients.
The material's potential extends beyond wound care and finds applications in cancer treatment as well. Traditional chemotherapy often requires patients to spend hours in a clinic, which can be exhausting and unpleasant. However, this innovative dressing offers a solution by enabling continuous drug release outside the clinical environment. By doing so, it addresses some of the difficulties associated with conventional methods, providing a more convenient and comfortable experience for patients undergoing cancer treatment.
The smart dressings comprise seaweed-derived biopolymer, a thermally responsive polymer, and cellulose nanocrystals. This thermal responsiveness enables the dressing to warm on the skin and gradually cool to room temperature. Furthermore, refrigeration causes the dressing to expand, while it contracts to a smaller size when at body temperature, easing removal discomfort. Moreover, the dressing is engineered for controlled medication release, ensuring extended pain relief duration.
"We also see potential in the beauty and cosmetic sector," stated Zhao, Waterloo's Nanotechnology Endowed Chair. "Cosmetologists can employ 3D scanning tech to assess clients' facial traits and tailor hydrogel masks infused with specialized skincare items. Furthermore, plastic surgeons can reap advantages from this groundbreaking method."
This study serves as a proof of concept for Zhao's Surface Science and Bio-nanomaterials Laboratory Group. The subsequent objective for Zhao's research team involves further enhancing the material's characteristics to enhance its safety and market feasibility.
A study highlighting the team's progress was recently published in the Journal of Colloids and Interface Science.
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