Basics of Wound Healing

Abstract

The skin is the largest organ of the body and provides a protective barrier between the body and the external environment against pathogens, hazardous substances, and mechanical and thermal damages. The skin also prevents loss of fluids and has immune-neuroendocrine functions that contribute to the maintenance of body homeostasis. Skin integrity must be promptly restored in order to maintain its functions. We all experience our fair share of wounds during the course of our lives. We get pricked by thorns, scratched by sharp objects, sunburned at the beach, and scalded by hot water. Accidents can lead to our skin being peeled or sliced off, and many of us may undergo surgical procedures which inevitably result in surgical wounds on our bodies. Selecting an appropriate wound healing strategy is crucial for successful wound healing in that it can minimize the risk of complications, enhance the speed of wound healing, and minimize scar formation after the wound has fully healed. During the past few decades, various technologies have been developed for optimal wound healing. In order to understand new techniques, procedure, and materials in wound healing, medical professionals should have a basic knowledge of wound healing. In this chapter, present-day information regarding clinically useful anatomy of the skin, terminology and documentation for wounds, basic wound healing process, and conventional wound healing methods will be briefly described prior to the main topics of this book.