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• Remodeling (Maturation) Phase (21 Days - 1 Year)
o Wound contraction and strengthening of collagen fibers occur.
o Scar tissue forms, achieving approximately 80% of original tissue strength.
o Vascularization decreases as healing progresses.

2. Factors Affecting Wound Healing

• Patient-Related Factors:
o Age: Older patients have slower healing due to decreased collagen production.
o Diabetes: Impaired circulation and neuropathy can delay wound healing.
o Nutrition: Deficiencies in protein, Vitamin C, and zinc can impair tissue repair.
o Smoking: Reduces oxygen delivery to tissues, increasing the risk of delayed healing and
infection.
• Wound-Related Factors:
o Type of wound (surgical, traumatic, pressure ulcer, diabetic ulcer, etc.).
o Infection presence, which can prolong the inflammatory phase.
o Wound moisture balance, as excessive dryness or moisture can impair healing.

Wound Dressing Types and Their Applications

Wound dressings serve multiple functions, including protecting the wound from infection,
absorbing excess exudate, promoting healing, and maintaining an optimal moisture
balance. Different types of dressings are selected based on wound type, exudate levels, and
healing requirements.

1. Primary Dressing Categories

• Gauze Dressings (Dry or Moist)
o Used for basic wound coverage, mild absorption, and mechanical debridement.
o Example: Sterile gauze pads for post-surgical incisions.
• Hydrocolloid Dressings
o Provide a moist healing environment and are ideal for shallow wounds with low
exudate.
o Example: Duoderm for pressure ulcers.
• Hydrogel Dressings
o Used for dry wounds or burns to promote hydration and autolytic debridement.
o Example: Hydrogel sheets for necrotic tissue wounds.
• Foam Dressings
o Designed for moderate to heavy exudating wounds and provide cushioning.
o Example: Allevyn for venous ulcers.
• Alginate Dressings
o Highly absorbent and derived from seaweed; used for highly exudative wounds.
o Example: Calcium alginate dressings for infected wounds or deep ulcers.
• Antimicrobial Dressings
o Contain silver or iodine to combat infection and biofilm formation.
o Example: Silver-impregnated dressings for diabetic foot ulcers.