February marks a noticeable increase in illnesses compared to previous months. In the era of rising antibiotic resistance, the need for innovative...

Health Tech of the Week: Modern Hydrogel Membrane KARVADERM – A Revolution in Wound and Infection Treatment
February marks a noticeable increase in illnesses compared to previous months. In the era of rising antibiotic resistance, the need for innovative solutions in wound and infection treatment is becoming increasingly urgent. This is the perfect moment to present the Polish scientific team from FunkBIOTICS in the latest edition of Health Tech of the Week. They have responded to these challenges by developing a groundbreaking product – the KARVADERM hydrogel membrane, which combines natural ingredients with eco-friendly technology, offering effective protection against infections and supporting tissue regeneration.
When the idea for an innovative product is born, it often has a personal dimension. For the team, the inspiration to create KARVADERM came from the personal experience of the company’s founder, who saw his father’s complications with diabetes as a driving force. His father’s illness, which led to an infection caused by Pseudomonas aeruginosa, became a serious health threat and highlighted the lack of effective and safe methods for treating infected wounds. The desire to develop an effective, natural dressing to help patients fight infections was therefore the key motivator behind the creation of the dressing.
Natural ingredients and modern technology
The hydrogel membrane from the Polish startup stands out with several unique properties, making it one of the most innovative products in the field of wound treatment. The combination of natural bioactive ingredients and modern technology makes KARVADERM a solution for contemporary medical challenges. It contains essential oils of thyme and oregano, which have strong antibacterial properties, effectively combating pathogens, including antibiotic-resistant bacteria such as Staphylococcus aureus and Pseudomonas aeruginosa. Moreover, these ingredients reduce biofilm formation, which is crucial in the treatment of chronic wounds.
– The dressing’s membrane is based on chitosan, a biopolymer of natural origin that is fully biodegradable. As a result, the dressing is not only effective in treatment but also environmentally friendly. Unlike synthetic dressings, which often generate medical waste, KARVADERM minimizes its negative impact on the planet, aligning with sustainable development principles – says Monika Bończa-Tomaszewska, co-founder and CEO.

The dressing is the result of a unique chitosan dissolution technology using gaseous carbon dioxide, which creates a more efficient hydrogel matrix. This structure allows for the gradual release of active ingredients, providing long-lasting antiseptic and therapeutic effects, which enhance treatment effectiveness and support the wound healing process. It has been designed with patients with sensitive skin in mind, including those with diabetes. Its biocompatibility ensures safe use, and its hemostatic and tissue-healing properties effectively support skin regeneration naturally and safely.
Unlike traditional dressings, which only provide passive protection, KARVADERM is an active dressing. Thanks to the presence of essential oils and other active ingredients, it acts proactively – aiding wound healing, controlling infections, and creating optimal conditions for tissue regeneration. This makes it stand out from other products on the market, offering more effective and faster wound healing.
– Thanks to its technology, it can maintain its antiseptic properties for 48-72 hours, making it a convenient solution for both patients and healthcare professionals. The frequency of dressing changes depends on the wound condition and the amount of exudate, but regular changes allow for monitoring treatment progress and maintaining optimal conditions for tissue regeneration – says dr. Agnieszka Magryś, associate professor at UMLUB, co-founder, and CSO of the brand.
Research on the effectiveness of KARVADERM indicates its high efficiency in accelerating wound healing and improving scar aesthetics. In vitro tests showed that the active ingredients of the dressing have strong activity against a broad spectrum of bacteria, including antibiotic-resistant strains. Preclinical studies observed faster wound closure and a lower risk of scarring compared to traditional dressings.
In the process of certification
The next step in the product’s development is to expand the product line with new forms of dressings, such as therapeutic foam. The foam, like the hydrogel, will contain the same bioactive ingredients but in a form more suitable for application in hard-to-reach areas. This product aims to improve the effectiveness of treating wounds with uneven surfaces and will serve as an alternative for patients using dressings in home settings.

Further studies on KARVADERM also include its use in treating more advanced burns and in emergency situations such as military actions or rescue missions. The product shows enormous potential for dual-use applications, both in civilian medicine and military healthcare.
– FunkBIOTICS is continuously working towards obtaining certifications that will allow the dressing to enter international markets. We plan to obtain CE certification, which will enable the sale of the dressing in the European Union. Additionally, further steps are being taken to expand distribution to other markets, which requires intensive efforts toward certification and cooperation with investors and strategic partners – adds Marcin Bończa-Tomaszewski, co-founder of the startup.
Sustainability at the forefront
KARVADERM is more than just an innovative medical product – it is also a step toward sustainable development and environmental protection. Its biodegradability and use of natural ingredients make it a product that meets the growing needs of modern society for health protection and care for our planet.
In the future, the dressing may find application not only in wound healing but also in regenerative medicine, aesthetic surgery, and even in military medical units. Further research and development of this technology aim to expand its applications to meet both civilian and military requirements.
FunkBIOTICS focuses on innovation, ecology, and patient care, creating a product that can change the future of wound treatment, which we sincerely believe. We hope it will!
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Stay tuned for more in the “Health Tech of the Week” series, where we’ll continue to uncover fascinating stories from the world of medical technologies that are changing the face of healthcare. If you’re working on an innovative project in the field of new technologies and medicine or want to recommend an interesting solution, contact us at: [email protected].
Health Tech of the Week: Modern Hydrogel Membrane KARVADERM – A Revolution in Wound and Infection Treatment
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