New insights into biomaterials for wound dressings and care: Challenges and trends

The skin, the largest organ in the human body, plays an indispensable role in tissue repair and is a critical barrier against external threats. Despite its protective function, the skin is continually exposed to various aggressions that can lead to wound formation. In recent decades, the prevalence of chronic wounds has emerged as a significant challenge for public health, characterized by its substantial economic burden, prolonged therapeutic interventions, and the persistent nature of chronicity. Therefore, to address this concern, the biomaterials industry has experienced substantial growth, focusing on accelerating wound healing and reducing treatment duration. These biomaterials encompass a wide variety, including polylactic acid, polycaprolactone, polyglycolic acid, alginate, hyaluronic acid, gelatin, xanthan gum, chitosan, keratin, carboxymethylcellulose, cellulose, hemicellulose, collagen, and several others. In addition, commonly employed biomaterial formats include hydrogels, films, foams, membranes, gels, intelligent and environmentally responsive dressings, 3D bioprinting, and combination therapies, all aimed at creating an optimal environment for wound healing. In this sense, this review covered a broad spectrum, including wound typologies, classifications, contamination gradients, healing mechanisms, key growth factors crucial for addressing chronic wounds, and a thorough examination of the diverse biomaterials used in injury treatment.