Wound healing is a complex, multifaceted process which is influenced by both intrinsic and extrinsic factors. The pH of the wound can affect many factors including oxygen release, angiogenesis, protease activity, and bacterial toxicity. Chronic non-healing wounds have an elevated alkaline environment. Healing occurs more readily in an acid environment. Current wound bed assessment is dependent on subjective evaluation with few diagnostic instruments available or suited to routine practice. Monitoring surface pH may provide a method of ‘measuring’ the condition of the wound bed and ultimately aid in determining the wound’s response to treatment.
