INSIGHTS INTO TISSUE REPAIR: A SYSTEMATIC OVERVIEW OF WOUND HEALING

Wound healing is a natural and complex biological process by which the body repairs damaged skin and restores its normal structure and function after injury. A wound results from disruption of the skin or underlying tissues due to physical, chemical, thermal, infectious, or pathological causes. The primary aim of wound healing is to re-establish the protective barrier of the skin and maintain tissue homeostasis. This process involves a coordinated interaction between cells, extracellular matrix components, cytokines, and growth factors. Healing occurs through four overlapping phases: hemostasis, inflammation, proliferation, and remodeling. Hemostasis prevents blood loss, inflammation removes debris and pathogens, and the proliferative phase promotes granulation tissue formation, angiogenesis, collagen deposition, epithelialization, and wound contraction. During remodeling, collagen is reorganized and the wound matures into a stronger, stable scar. Depending on wound characteristics and management, healing may occur by primary, secondary, or tertiary intention. Successful wound healing depends on local factors such as perfusion, oxygenation, moisture, and infection control, as well as systemic factors including nutrition, age, underlying diseases, and medications. Accurate assessment and appropriate management are essential for optimal healing outcomes.