Chitosan: A Multifunctional Biopolymer for Enhanced Wound Healing with Antimicrobial, Haemostatic, and Analgesic Properties, Supported by Clinical Evidence

Wound healing is a complex physiological process that repairs tissue integrity with stages including hemostasis, inflammation, proliferation, and remodeling. The primary aim of wound management is to avert infection, limit necrotic tissue development, expedite the healing process, and reduce scar formation. Chitosan (CS) is a biopolymer that has been extensively studied for its potential use in wound healing applications. This is due to its biocompatibility, biodegradability, non-toxicity, antimicrobial, haemostatic, and analgesic properties. Protection against bacteria, algae, and fungi is the source of its antimicrobial properties. Chemical modifications have improved the haemostatic activity and analgesic properties of the CS, which enhance patient comfort during the recovery phase. Furthermore, CS and its derivative have attracted much attention due to the accelerated wound healing. This review examines the synthesis, structural characteristics, and inherent properties of CS, as well as its potential applications in wound treatment, with a focus on antimicrobial efficacy, haemostatic capabilities, analgesic effects, and relevant clinical studies.