Dr. Myungwoo Choi heads the pioneering research group at Korea Electrotechnology Research Institute (KERI). From this hard-earned wisdom, they have created an innovative, nanomaterial-based, wireless, multi-sensing early-detection platform to recognize these dangerous pressure injuries. This cutting-edge technology directly addresses the needs and desires of people with reduced mobility. Most importantly, it protects them from a disproportionate risk of injuries. The platform takes advantage of the distinct physicochemical properties of copper sulfide (CuS). It holds great promise to improve patient care by tracking physiological signals continuously and in real-time.
The multidisciplinary research team is working to combat the increasing incidence and prevalence of pressure injuries. Within this population, gunshot wounds often result in life-threatening health issues that require immediate intervention. The wireless multi-sensing platform that consistently monitors both pressure and temperature. Additionally, it senses ammonia gas (NH₃) released from these bio-contaminants as well. This cross-disciplinary approach provides a distinct breakthrough in patient hygiene and infection prevention.
The Role of Copper Sulfide
At the forefront of this technology is a new nanomaterial – copper sulfide, known for its tremendous antibacterial and sterilizing properties. The specific properties of this material allow for rapid detection of ammonia gas. Ammonia emissions often originate from small quantities of bio-contaminants, such as urine and feces.
“We have developed a highly efficient material that can selectively detect ammonia among gases emitted from the human body at room temperature without an external energy source, and this marks the world’s first application of such a material in a wireless sensor platform.” – Dr. Myungwoo Choi
The sensor’s surface has been engineered into a three-dimensional porous structure, further enhancing its ability to detect small traces of NH₃ gas. This design increases sensitivity and allows for quicker action to address emerging hygiene threats. As such, it has a tremendous impact on patient safety.
Advancements in Wireless Technology
This added feature will make it more convenient and intuitive to use in the clinical setting. This innovation removes the frustrating burden of cables and batteries. This allows healthcare professionals to track patients remotely and efficiently with little effort.
For the research team, cross-harvesting technology was a major advance, having proven clinical feasibility. They were able to attach sensors to five such patients, including patients with hemiplegia, at Gimhae Hansol Rehabilitation & Convalescent Hospital. In this pilot study, the technology was validated with high sensitivity and specificity. Specifically, it defended the policy on its merit to improve quality of care for patients with mobility limitations.
Cost Efficiency and Collaborative Success
This project made an outstanding impact by driving the unit cost of the sensor material to a fraction of previous costs. We reduced the price to more than 17 times less than current approaches. This potential cost-effectiveness is crucial to driving adoption of the technology across all healthcare environments. That means more patients who could benefit will get access to it.
Dr. Choi reiterated the need for collaborative work to make these kinds of progress.
“It is a truly meaningful example of successful collaboration among academia, research institutes, and hospitals.” – Dr. Myungwoo Choi
It’s this collaboration across disciplines that breeds innovation. Most importantly, it ensures that the solutions we develop are feasible and workable in actual healthcare delivery environments.
