Hydrogel-based dressings designed to facilitate wound healing

The escalating prevalence of wounds, particularly chronic wounds, poses significant challenges in terms of treatment management and has led to an increase in healthcare expenditure. Hydrogel-based dressings play a crucial role in wound management due to their unique properties. However, there remains a lack of comprehensive reviews on the use of hydrogel-based dressings for wound healing. This review commences with an overview of the process and characteristics of wound healing. Furthermore, we summarize the various functions of hydrogel-based dressings in promoting wound healing, including adhesive property, antibacterial efficacy, hemostasis, angiogenesis promotion, anti-oxidation, anti-inflammatory effect, self-healing, and conductivity. We further discuss the challenges encountered during the healing of different types of wounds, particularly diabetic wounds, and outline the latest advancements in the application of hydrogel-based dressings in the management of different types of wounds. In addition, we conclude and provide an outlook on the application of hydrogel-based dressings in wound healing, with the aim of further enhancing their ability to promote wound healing. This review provides an overview of the functionalities of hydrogel-based dressings and their role in promoting wound healing.