Applications of smart materials in wound care

One of the present trends in implantable applications requires materials that are derived from nature (Khor and Lim, 2003). Many antimicrobial ingredients derived from natural sources are very attractive because of their safety, biocompatibihty, and environmentally friendly properties (biodegradability). In addition, it is shown that these materials better promote healing at a faster rate and are expected to exhibit greatCT compatibility with humans. Among many other candidates for biomaterials available from nature are polysaccharides. 

A composite film was prepared by the addition of 10—30% chitosan into keratin (Khor and Lim, 2003). This film exhibited improved resistance to bacteria and supported fibroblast attachment and proliferation, suggesting a role in wound healing for keratin—chitosan films. Moreover, the preparation of a bilayered chitosan membrane proved its effectiveness for controlling of infection. Such a membrane uses a thin layer of chitosan as an antibacterial and moisture control barrier attached to a sponge layer that could absorb wound exudates. Additionally, the bilayered chitosan 

Excretions/secretions enzymatically degrade only the necrotic tissue by the action of various proteol3ftic enzymes such as peptidases, collagenases, and elastases (Vistnes et al., 1981). 

A prohferating effect on healthy tissue in the wound is due to allantoin and substances that stimulate granulation tissue formation (Prete, 1997). 

Inhibition of bacterial growth is due to a mixture of antimicrobial compounds (Bexlield, 2004). 

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