(DLS-036) Prediction of non-alkaline wound healing outcomes based on one-time wound alkalinity measurement

Maha Khan, TCU Burnett School of Medicine – M.D Candidate, TCU Burnett School of Medicine, TCU Burnett School of Medicine; Dr. Liping Tang, Doctorate in Biomedical Engineering – Founder, Progenitec Inc, Progenitec Inc

Introduction: The objective of this study was to predict the healing outcomes by assessing the change of wound alkalinity following the initial wound treatment.

Methods: The planar alkalinity of heterogeneous wounds was monitored by assessing discarded wound fluid-soaked wound dressings from 24 various types of wounds using a disposable and non-contact device - DETEC^® pH. 12 wounds were further classified as venous stasis ulcers. The wound alkalinity and size at the 1st, 2nd, and 3rd visits were correlated with healing wound determination over 8 weeks of follow-up from the device output.

Results: 3 venous stasis ulcers’ (VSUs) dressings were randomly chosen to showcase the heterogenous wound alkalinity and healing outcome in various wound regions. In Fig 1A and 1B, the lateral edges of the wound are non-alkaline, whereas it becomes more alkaline towards the center. This wound healing outcome aligns with second intension, where the granulation tissue fills in the edges (Fig 1C) and works inwards. The wound was then filled with novo tissue and vasculature and replaced with necrotic tissue until replacement by scar tissue (Fig 1D).



Discussion:
Our results show that wound alkalinity measurements of venous ulcer wounds at a routine follow-up visit between 5 to 14 days after the first visit could predict the healing outcome and wound size reduction for heterogenous wounds. This innovative outcome and knowledge could help the clinician design the most optimum wound management process for the patient.