Navigating Wound Healing: A Comprehensive Review of Pathophysiology, Treatment Modalities, and Advanced Management Strategies

Wound healing is a complex physiological process influenced by a multitude of factors, including underlying pathophysiological conditions, the type of wound, and treatment modalities. This review article elucidates the pathophysiology of wounds and categorizes wound healing based on types and causes. The TIME (Tissue, Infection, Moisture, Edge) and TWA (Tissue, Wound, Assessment) frameworks are examined for their roles in treatment selection. Key factors affecting wound healing, such as infection, oxygenation, obesity, diabetes mellitus, protein malnutrition, medications, cancer treatment, and lifestyle patterns, are discussed. Additionally, we explore syndromes related to abnormal wound healing and the diverse categories of wound dressings: conventional, biomaterial based, and synthetic. The review emphasizes the importance of selecting appropriate dressings categorized into primary and supplementary, passive or interactive based on their interaction with biological tissues. Common biomaterials for wound healing, including polysaccharides and their derivatives, are also analyzed. Lastly, we address advanced wound management strategies such as hyperbaric oxygen therapy, electrical stimulation, and laser treatment, alongside regulatory aspects governing wound dressings.