Utilization of a Near Infrared Spectroscopy Device and a pH and Temperature Meter to Quantitatively Measure and Analyze the Immune Response to a Novel Autologous Wound Matrix* Used in the Treatment of Chronic Wounds

Abstract Body: Slow healing of chronic wounds is affected by a combination of local, systemic and psychosocial conditions1. The contributing elements affecting the healing process directly or indirectly vary from one individual to the next2. The lack of quantifiable evidence when making treatment decisions can lead to expensive complications and costly extended healing times. Patients with chronic non-healing wounds were treated with a Novel Autologous Wound Matrix*. Blood from each patient was extracted using citrate, mixed with a suspension of calcium gluconate/kaolin and injected into a proprietary coagulation tray. Within 10 minutes a clot was formed, placed on the wound and fixed with primary and secondary dressings3. A near infrared (NIR) spectroscopy device was used to measure components of the tissue at the base of the wound and peri-wound area including tissue oxygen saturation, (StO2%), deoxyhemoglobin (Hb), oxyhemoglobin (HbO2) and total hemoglobin (tHb). A wound pH meter was used to measure the pH and temperature of the wound base. Four patients with chronic ulcers were treated with the Novel Autologous Wound Matrix* X 3 (once every 7 days) and measurements were taken with the devices before and during treatment. The qualitative and quantitative results confirmed an improvement in healing in the chronic wounds after the first application. A reduction in the lesion size, a decrease in pain and a reduction in exudate was observed. Quantitively an increase in StO2%, a decrease in Hb, and an increase in HbO2 and tHb was observed confirming an increase in healing with the application of the Novel Autologous Wound Matrix*.