Multifunctional hydrogels for wound healing

Abstract The process of wound healing is complex and dynamic. Given the unique nature of the skin, wound healing requires dressings that meet a wide range of functional requirements. Due to their unique structure and properties, hydrogel dressings provide ideal conditions for supporting the process of wound healing and can be enhanced with additional functions to meet the specific requirements of different types of wounds. Compared to traditional wound dressings, the newly developed hydrogel wound dressing offers several advantages, including its soft texture, ability to retain moisture, oxygen permeability, and comfort. With the advancement of medical technology, higher demands are being placed on the functionality of hydrogel dressings. Therefore, this paper offers a comprehensive overview of hydrogel wound dressings with various functions. These functions primarily include hemostatic hydrogel dressings, antibacterial hydrogel dressings, angiogenesis-promoting hydrogel dressings, and other functional hydrogel dressings. The paper also reviews the research and application of these dressings in recent years.