Dermal Substitutes for Clinical Management of Severe Burn Injuries: Current and Future Perspectives

Abstract

Despite significant advances in recent decades, severe burns remain a formidable challenge, with high morbidity and mortality rates. The immunocompromised state following severe burn injuries, compounded by the loss of the protective skin barrier, increases the risk of bacterial colonization and invasion. Without appropriate management, infections in burn patients can progress to sepsis, a life-threatening complication. Current burn care often fails to achieve optimal tissue regeneration and infection prevention, necessitating a combination of different approaches. Developing innovative and safer strategies to mitigate burn infections is essential for improving patient outcomes. This review provides updated insights into various biomaterials tailored for managing infections in severe burns, offering comprehensive insights and a summary of emerging technologies for potential clinical application. Additionally, an in-depth discussion on current research and clinical areas that warrant further investigation is presented. Potential avenues for next-generation dermal substitutes aimed at improving regeneration and preventing burn wound infections are then explored.