Copper Dressing Application Results in Increased Oxygen Levels in Wound and Surrounding Skin: A Case Series Study

OBJECTIVE: Hard-to-heal wounds affect 1% to 2% of the population in resource-rich countries, with increasing incidence due to aging and comorbidities such as diabetes. Copper oxide-impregnated wound dressings promote wound healing, including among hard-to-heal, noninfected, stagnated wounds. This study sought to assess the effects of copper oxide-impregnated dressings on oxygen saturation levels in wounds and surrounding skin using hyperspectral imaging. METHODS: A prospective case series involving 15 patients with chronic wounds was conducted across 2 hospitals. Hyperspectral imaging measured superficial (stO 2 ) and deep (near-infrared) tissue oxygenation pre- and postapplication of copper dressings. RESULTS: Superficial oxygen saturation increased significantly in 75% of wounds (stO 2 mean change: 53.0% to 56.9%; P <.05). In the focal center of the wounds, the increase of stO 2 was even higher (stO 2 mean change: 51.6% to 60.0%; P <.05). Deep tissue oxygenation improved in 50% of cases. CONCLUSIONS: Copper oxide-impregnated dressings significantly increased wound oxygenation, suggesting a potential mechanism for enhanced healing in hard-to-heal wounds. Further research is warranted to optimize protocols and confirm findings.