Recent Developments in 3D-(Bio)printed Hydrogels as Wound Dressings

Area of Science:

• Biomaterials Science
• Regenerative Medicine
• Tissue Engineering

Background:

• Wound healing is crucial for skin barrier reconstruction, with chronic wounds posing significant clinical challenges due to delayed healing and infection risk.
• Current treatments for acute and chronic wounds include surgical interventions and topical formulations, but novel approaches are needed for non-healing wounds.
• Millions worldwide suffer from chronic wounds, highlighting the urgent need for advanced therapeutic strategies to improve healing outcomes and reduce morbidity.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review recent advancements in 3D (bio)printed hydrogels for wound healing applications.
• To focus on the in vitro and in vivo assessment results of these novel hydrogel constructs.
• To provide an overview of the materials, printing techniques, and incorporated bioactive agents used in these advanced wound dressings.

Main Methods:

• Review of recently developed 3D (bio)printed hydrogels for wound healing.
• Analysis of hydrogel constructs fabricated using diverse bioinks (natural/synthetic polymers, biological materials).
• Examination of various printing techniques including extrusion, digital light processing, and coaxial microfluidic bioprinting.
• Assessment of hydrogels incorporating bioactive agents (growth factors, antibiotics, nanoparticles) and/or cells (fibroblasts, keratinocytes, stem cells).

Main Results:

• 3D (bio)printed hydrogels demonstrate potential as advanced wound dressings.
• The review focuses on the in vitro and in vivo performance data of these engineered constructs.
• Diverse bioink compositions and printing methods enable tailored hydrogel properties for specific wound healing needs.

Conclusions:

• 3D (bio)printed hydrogels represent a promising frontier in wound healing technology.
• These advanced materials offer customizable solutions for complex wound management, including chronic and infected wounds.
• Further research and clinical translation of these 3D (bio)printed hydrogels are essential to fully realize their therapeutic potential.