At Microbiome Insights, we understand the importance of sample collection and analysis for wound healing. Our team has years of experience working with a variety of sample types and collection methods – from collecting samples from an open wound to collecting swabs from healthy clinical surfaces such as wound dressing or bandages. Here's what you need to know about sample collection for microbiome analysis in wound healing.
Proper Sampling Techniques
To obtain a reliable microbiome analysis, the first step is to obtain a proper sample. There are different methods to collect samples depending on the type of wound and stage of wound healing. For most wet wounds, we recommend using a swab gently to collect the exudate from the wound surface. It's important to avoid touching the wound edges or any area that is not affected by the wound. For dry wounds such as fully healed wounds, the microbiome analysis can also be performed by swabbing the surrounding skin without touching the wound directly.
Storage of Samples
After you have collected the wound dressing or bandage samples, it's crucial to store them properly to ensure the integrity of the sample for microbiome analysis. The temperature conditions in which a sample is stored can impact bacterial growth and survival. To avoid this, we recommend storing your samples immediately in a resealable bag and place it in the refrigerator or freezer to preserve the microbial community. It's important to acknowledge that if the samples were collected using a commercial collection device, you may choose to store them at room temperature as recommended by the manufacturer. However, if you are unsure and want to extend the viability of the sample, we suggest storing them in the refrigerator or freezer.
Analysis of Samples
Once the sample is collected, stored, and transported to the lab, it's time for analysis. At Microbiome Insights, we use a state-of-the-art sequencing platform with advanced bioinformatics pipelines to provide industry-leading microbiome analysis to our clients. Our microbiome services for wound samples provide valuable information on the types and relative abundances of bacteria present in wounds. These insights can help healthcare providers choose the right course of action in wound care management, such as topical antimicrobial agents, dressings, or systemic antibiotics.
Conclusion
To sum it up, wound care management relies heavily on analysing the microbial makeup of the wound. Microbiome analysis can provide valuable data on the types and relative abundances of bacteria present in wounds. To obtain the most reliable results, proper sample collection, storage and transport are crucial steps in the process. At Microbiome Insights, our team has the experience and expertise to handle all your wound sampling and analysis requirements. Contact us today to learn more about our microbiome analysis services for wound care.