Extended-release Local Anesthetic Wound Dressing For Long-term Pain Control Of Dermal Injuries

Novel wound dressing designed for long-term non-opioid pain control and improved wound healing.

While partial-thickness wounds such as second-degree burns and split-thickness skin graft donor sites typically heal without complications, these wounds are often are associated with intense pain. Unfortunately, opioids remain the primary analgesic for this pain even though they can cause nausea, constipation, respiratory depression, addiction, and other issues that can contribute to extended hospitalization and associated healthcare costs.

University of Utah researchers have developed a novel extended-release local anesthetic wound dressing that can provide sustained bupivacaine delivery to painful partial thickness dermal injuries. This technology has the potential to be an alternative to systemic opioids in an easy-to-use solution that provides long-acting pain relief. In addition, the film is designed to stay in-place on the wound site throughout the healing process to minimize disturbance of the wound bed and promote faster re-epithelialization by providing mechanical protection, a moist environment, and protection against infection.

Proof of Concept

• A non-opioid form of pain management that avoids the known risks of opioids including addiction, constipation, sedation, etc. 
• Reduces the need for painful dressing changes. 
• Encourages wound healing by protecting re-epithelialized skin and maintaining a moist environment. 
• Potential to reduce healthcare costs through reduced opioid associated complications, improved healing, and reduced healthcare resources required to change would dressings. 

Publication Number: US 2021 0378870 A1
Patent Title: MULTI-FUNCTIONAL ANALGESIC-RELEASING WOUND DRESSING
Jurisdiction/Country: United States
Application Type: Non-Provisional

Jason Young
(801) 587-0519
jason.r.young@utah.edu