Construction and Performance Study of an Injectable Dual-Network Hydrogel Dressing with Inherent Drainage Function

Area of Science:

• Biomaterials Science
• Wound Healing Research
• Nanotechnology

Background:

• Moist wound dressings can lead to prolonged healing and infection risk due to excessive moisture.
• Effective wound moisture control is crucial for promoting healing and preventing complications.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop an injectable dual-network hydrogel dressing with controlled moisture management and enhanced healing properties.
• To investigate the potential of a novel hydrogel (CMCS-OSA/AG/MXene) for wound care applications.

Main Methods:

• Constructed an injectable dual-network hydrogel (CMCS-OSA/AG/MXene) using carboxymethyl chitosan, oxidized sodium alginate, and agar.
• Incorporated MXene for photothermal properties and conductivity.
• Evaluated wound exudate removal, antibacterial effects, cell proliferation under electrical stimulation, and wound healing in animal models.

Main Results:

• The CMCS-OSA/AG/MXene hydrogel demonstrated rapid wound exudate removal under near-infrared (NIR) light stimulation.
• The hydrogel exhibited excellent antibacterial effects and promoted cell proliferation via electrical stimulation.
• Animal studies confirmed accelerated wound healing in full-thickness skin defects.

Conclusions:

• The developed hydrogel dressing effectively controls wound moisture, possesses antibacterial properties, and promotes healing.
• This innovative material offers a new approach to wound moisture management and accelerated wound repair.