Insights into electrospun polymeric nanofiber mats: an innovative dressing for wound healing applications

Wound management is a complex clinical challenge that needs advanced materials and techniques for satisfactory results. Electrospun nanofiber mats have emerged as an innovative alternative for wound healing purposes due to their porous architecture, greater surface area, ease of water absorption, mimicry of the extracellular matrix of natural tissues and tunable mechanical properties. This paper sheds light on recent advances in the fabrication techniques, properties, structural features and application of electrospun polymeric nanofiber mats for wound healing purposes emphasizing the importance of polymer selection and processing parameters in tailoring their physicochemical properties. Furthermore, the review explores the underlying principles of the wound healing process and various approaches to incorporating bioactive agents into nanofiber mats to enhance their biological performance and wound healing potential. The possibility of embedding stimuli-responsive sensors into the nanofiber mats to develop smart mats is also briefly explored. © 2024 Society of Chemical Industry.