Current Trends in Chronic Wound and Scar Management: A Comprehensive Review
A recent review published in Wound Management & Prevention by Drs. Chantalle Crous, Judey Pretorius, and Anél Petzer offers a detailed examination of contemporary approaches to managing chronic wounds and pathological scars. The article underscores the complexity of these conditions and the necessity for multifaceted treatment strategies. :contentReference[oaicite:5]{index=5}
Key Highlights:
- Multiphase Healing Process: The review outlines the four overlapping phases of wound healing—hemostasis, inflammation, proliferation, and remodeling—and discusses how disruptions in these phases can lead to chronic wounds.
- Scar Formation Challenges: It emphasizes that while scar tissue is a natural part of healing, excessive or pathological scarring can cause significant physical and psychological distress, highlighting the need for effective management strategies.
- Emerging Therapies: The authors discuss various treatment modalities, including advanced dressings, growth factor therapies, and stem cell applications, noting that while these show promise, further research is needed to establish their efficacy and safety.
The review concludes that despite the availability of numerous treatment options, there is no universally accepted gold standard for managing chronic wounds and scars. The authors advocate for continued research into the molecular mechanisms of wound healing and scarring to develop more effective and targeted therapies.:contentReference[oaicite:16]{index=16}
Read the full article on the HMP Global Learning Network website.
Keywords:
chronic wounds,
scar management,
wound healing,
Chantalle Crous,
Judey Pretorius,
Anél Petzer