Polish scientists from the Lodz University of Technology have developed an innovative hydrogel dressing to treat diabetic wounds, polish media reported Thursday.

The dressing delivers tetrapeptides to the wound, causing the restoration and creation of new blood vessels within it and therefore reducing the number of amputations, according to the Polish Press Agency.

Scientists said the hydrogel dressing also absorbs secretions, relieves pain and removes necrotic tissue. At the same time, the usage of tetrapeptides facilitates the dispensing of drugs with a constant, regular speed without medical intervention.

Treating the so-called "diabetic foot" and diabetic wounds is usually expensive with wider social and economic ramifications. In Poland, more than 10,000 amputations are performed annually due to diabetes.

The team of scientists continues to study the kinetics of tetrapeptide release to the wound and durability of the hydrogel dressing.