Pathophysiology of Wound Healing
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Date
2020
Authors
Mill, S.J.
Hofma, B.R.
Cowin, A.J.
Editors
Fitridge, R.
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Book chapter
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Mechanisms of Vascular Disease A Textbook for Vascular Specialists Third Edition, 2020 / Fitridge, R. (ed./s), Ch.25, pp.541-561
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Abstract
Wound healing is a complex process made up of four distinct but overlapping stages including, haemostasis, inflammation, proliferation and remodelling. In skin, the overall aim of the wound healing process is to reform the barrier to the outside environment, in as short a time as possible, to prevent infection and fluid loss. Wound healing involves numerous growth factor and cytokine signalling cascades which help to remove infection from the wound and reform the damaged skin. However, if there is any disruption or alteration to these four stages, delayed healing can result along with the formation of chronic wounds. Chronic wounds may take many months to heal or even fail to heal completely, which in the worst cases may lead to amputations. In this chapter, the process of wound healing is described along with the various triggers that can contribute to the formation of diabetic ulcers, pressure injuries and arterial and venous ulcers. The effect of age on healing responses is discussed as the increasing numbers of elderly people in our societies is leading to an unprecedented increase in wounds in the community. Finally, wound infection is introduced as it is becoming increasingly prevalent and is creating a significant challenge for wound management due to the emerging prevalence of antimicrobial resistance. Overall, these challenges are leading to a pressing need for improved treatments and clinical approaches for the treatment of wounds.
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Copyright 2007, 2011,2020 Springer Nature
Access Condition Notes: Accepted manuscript is available open access