METHODS AND SYSTEMS FOR IMPROVING WOUND HEALING

Smart overview of the Invention

The patent application presents innovative methods and systems aimed at enhancing wound healing through the use of machine learning models. These models analyze wound images and related data to accurately assess healing rates and develop effective treatment plans. The invention addresses the need for precise and consistent wound assessment, which is crucial for improving patient outcomes and optimizing healthcare resources.

Background

Chronic wounds, such as diabetic, venous, and pressure ulcers, pose significant challenges in healthcare, affecting millions and incurring billions in treatment costs annually in the U.S. The aging population and rising rates of diabetes and obesity exacerbate this issue. Accurate wound assessment is lacking, leading to inconsistent treatment outcomes and increased healthcare costs. Standardized assessments are essential for effective treatment planning, improving patient care, and ensuring regulatory compliance.

Challenges and Implications

Current methods for assessing wound healing are limited in precision, often relying on basic measurements like wound area and perimeter. Inaccurate assessments can lead to financial, legal, and clinical repercussions, including increased costs, potential legal actions, and impeded healing processes. A standardized, objective assessment system is needed to address these challenges and improve treatment efficacy and patient safety.

Proposed Method

The proposed method involves determining the wound healing rate using advanced imaging and machine learning techniques. This includes segmenting wound images into regions, determining wound boundaries, and calculating three-dimensional characteristics such as length, width, and depth. The healing rate prediction is based on these characteristics, allowing for more accurate treatment adjustments and interventions. The method can be applied in various settings, including home care and remote environments.

Applications and Benefits

The system supports various wound types, including chronic and burn wounds, and can adapt treatment schedules based on healing progress. It enables treatments outside hospital settings, such as in-home care or field environments, enhancing accessibility and convenience. By integrating with mobile devices for imaging, the system offers a flexible, scalable solution to improve wound management and patient outcomes across diverse healthcare scenarios.