Cold Atmospheric Plasma (CAP) technology is a non-invasive, drug-free therapeutic option. Unlike plasma in the biological sense (the liquid component of blood), CAP refers to a partially ionised gas generated at room temperature that contains a mixture of reactive particles, including ions, electrons, reactive oxygen species and reactive nitrogen species. These components give CAP unique biological effects, particularly with regards to antimicrobial activity and wound healing.

What Is Cold Atmospheric Plasma?

Cold Atmospheric Plasma (CAP) is often described as the “fourth state of matter,” alongside solids, liquids and gases. When energy is applied to a gas, such as air, argon or helium it can become ionised, producing plasma through electrical discharge. Plasma is a gaseous state where ions circulate freely, i.e. an ionised gas. CAP is a partially ionised gas below 40 °C which is highly electrically conductive.

The plasma is generated by direct dielectric discharge. The primary plasma applies voltage to the dielectric and the secondary plasma is generated by discharges between the device and the patient (conducting surface) which generates the biological and therapeutic action of the cold plasma. Due to the low electrical currents and its low temperature (<40 °c), this technology can be applied on living tissues such as skin and wounds is widely accepted by patients. cap has a broad antimicrobial effect therefore effective against mrsa bacteria biofilms. these are often resistant to antibiotics. it also fungicidal, antiviral parasiticidal effects. cap promote cell proliferation microcirculation, aiding wound healing. effects supported growing body of laboratory clinical research, particularly in care dermatology. [ av_textblock] [av_textblock fold_type = fold_height = fold_more =Read more fold_less =Read less fold_text_style = fold_btn_align = textblock_styling_align = textblock_styling = textblock_styling_gap = textblock_styling_mobile = size = av-desktop-font-size = av-medium-font-size = av-small-font-size = av-mini-font-size=font_color = color='' fold_overlay_color='' fold_text_color='' fold_btn_color='theme-color' fold_btn_bg_color='' fold_btn_font_color='' size-btn-text='' av-desktop-font-size-btn-text='' av-medium-font-size-btn-text='' av-small-font-size-btn-text='' av-mini-font-size-btn-text='' fold_timer='' z_index_fold='' id='' custom_class='' template_class='' av_uid='av-mpb6jsz5' sc_version='1.0' admin_preview_bg='' ] cap used in:- 1. Wound Management

• Surgical wounds
• Traumatic injuries
• Pressure sores
• Infected wounds

Studies have shown that CAP can reduce bacterial load and accelerate healing, especially in wounds that are resistant to conventional treatments.

2. Dermatological Conditions 

• Bacterial and fungal skin infections
• Hot spots (acute moist dermatitis)
• Otitis externa (ear infections)

3. Dentistry and Oral Health.

• Periodontal disease
• Oral infections

4. Helps muscle regeneration

• The electromagnetic signals release muscle tightness and help recovery after nerve and muscle damage.

Therapeutic Effects of Cold Atmospheric Plasma

One of the most significant advantages of CAP is its ability to have a broad anti-microbial spectrum activity (including MRSA bacteria) and biofilms without the use of antibiotics. This is particularly important as antimicrobial resistance (AMR) is a major concern in both human and veterinary healthcare. CAP has been shown to improve blood flow at the treatment site and help reduce infection in wounds. Healing processes are promoted through increased cell proliferation and inflammation is reduced by influencing the formation of cellular mediators, helping to support the immune system and to help promote muscle repair.

CAP is applied externally and is well tolerated. For external wounds, it does not generally require sedation so saves time, resources and reduces procedural risk which makes it suitable for a wide range of patients, including older or higher-risk animals. CAP does not require protective clothing or eye protection to be worn. It is also not necessary to use gels or for the treated area to be shaved before treatment.

In conclusion, CAP is a non-invasive, drug-free therapeutic option. The ionised gas generated at low temperatures is used for wound healing, for its antimicrobial effects and to support muscle repair.

Written by Dr. Sarah Woods, BVSc BSc (Hons) PhD MRCVS, Veterinary Advisor, Forte Healthcare Ltd

To learn more about Forte Healthcare’s medical devices that uses CAP in small animals go to PetCellpen®, and to access product materials go to Support Materials PetCellpen®; for equine go to EquCellpen.