Conductive adhesive self-healing nanocomposite hydrogels for photothermal therapy in wound healing

A highly complex and dynamic process, wound healing can be compromised or slowed down by infection or chronic illness. Phototherapy can be effectively used to inactivate a wide range of pathogenic bacterial in the wound bed, as well as promote tissue regeneration and angiogenesis. Photothermal hydrogel wound dressings provide an attractive avenue for the delivery of photothermal agents to the wound bed with a high degree of control over their distribution, while also providing a protective barrier and a moist environment for the wound. Their efficacy in promoting wound healing can be further extended through the intelligent incorporation of other active agents, including drugs and conductive nanoparticles, that enable controlled delivery of chemical, electrical and physical stimulation. This chapter reviews recent progress in the development of hydrogel dressings for wound healing, highlighting some of the challenges and opportunities for the development of these material platforms.