Next Generation Medical Skin Dressings

Ostomy bags are used as a healing aid and collection device for a stoma, which is an opening of the abdomen caused by a chronic wound. However, there are reports of up to 80% of patients experiencing complications with the use of ostomy bags.1 Most commonly this involves irritation or trauma to the peristomal skin. With approximately 700,000 patients globally in current use of an ostomy bag,2 it is essential such complications are addressed. The focus of this project is to improve upon the modern design of ostomy bags. The new design will work towards maximising comfortability for the patient, and minimise the possibility for complications to occur. The main cause of such complications is when the ostomy bag does not create a good enough seal around the stoma. This can lead to a number of issues, including: leakages, rubbing against the peristomal skin, infection, etc. Therefore, we will explore ways of ensuring the base (base plate) of the ostomy bag can mould around the stoma, in a way that is comfortable. To further improve the health of the stoma, we are interested in researching materials for the base plate that will be bio-compatible. This will first mean that it is not harsh on the skin, and therefore reducing the risk of abrasion. Secondly, it is to ensure the material is breathable. This would allow air to reach the peristomal skin, improving its overall health, and reducing the risk of infection. Overall, these aim to improve the health of the stoma, and maximise comfortability of the patient, and therefore any other ideas to do so will also be explored. It is also of interest in this project to make the product sustainable. This is important as the patient is required to replace their ostomy bag often (weekly or so). Therefore, we would like to ensure that all components of the product are biodegradable or easily recyclable (particularly the plastic base plate). This will reduce the negative impact the use of ostomy bags can have on the environment. References: [1] G. Salvadalena, J Wound Ostomy Continence Nurs, 2020, 47, 357{363.
[2] W. Pan, B. Matsuda and H. Yuk, Medical Devices & Sensors, 2020, 3, 10132.