Washington, Aug 27 - A novel tool named Dermastream, devised by researchers, heals recurring bed sores and chronic ulcers speedily.

Dermastream provides an enzyme-based solution that flows continuously over the wound, offering an alternative treatment to combat a problem for which current treatments are costly and labour-intensive.

Dermastream has passed clinical trials in Israeli hospitals and may be available in the US next year, said Amihay Freeman, professor at the Tel Aviv University (TAU).

More than six million people in the US suffer from persistent wounds. The bedridden elderly and infirm are prone to painful and dangerous pressure ulcers, and diabetics are susceptible to wounds caused by a lack of blood flow to the extremities.

'Our basic idea is simple,' said Freeman.