Advancements and Challenges in 3D Printing for Wound Healing: Current Trends and Future Prospects

Abstract
Purpose

Chronic wounds present a significant global healthcare burden, often resulting in prolonged healing, increased patient suffering, and escalating medical costs. These wounds are frequently associated with underlying chronic conditions, further complicating treatment and straining healthcare systems. Conventional wound dressings, though commonly employed, often fall short in meeting the complex and evolving demands of chronic wound management.
Methods

A comprehensive literature search was conducted using PubMed, Scopus, and Google Scholar with the keywords “3D printing,” “wound healing,” “targeted drug delivery,” and “promising delivery tool.” Only English-language articles were included in the review.
Results

Three-dimensional (3D) printing has emerged as a promising strategy in the development of advanced wound dressings. This technology allows for the precise fabrication of dressings tailored to individual patient needs by incorporating natural or synthetic polymers, bioactive agents, and even living cells. The integration of decellularized tissues, biodegradable biopolymers, and synthetic composites into 3D bioprinting platforms enhances the versatility and therapeutic potential of wound care solutions. Moreover, the inclusion of nanomaterials broadens the functional capabilities of these dressings, promoting tissue regeneration and enabling personalized medicine approaches.
Conclusions

This review critically explores the role of 3D printing in wound healing, highlighting current technologies, applications, challenges, and future prospects. The findings suggest that 3D-printed, multifunctional dressings offer a transformative approach to wound management by delivering targeted, efficient, and patient-specific therapies.
Lay Summary

3D printing is transforming the healthcare sector by providing precise and customizable medical solutions tailored to individual patient needs. In the field of wound healing, innovative 3D-printed dressings and scaffolds are being developed to significantly expedite tissue regeneration. These advanced materials can replicate the natural tissue environment, creating optimal conditions for healing and ultimately improving patient outcomes. Additionally, the field of personalized medicine is advancing through the creation of implants designed specifically to fit each patient’s unique anatomy. This includes not only orthopedic implants but also sophisticated drug delivery systems that can administer medications in a controlled and targeted manner, as well as bioengineered tissues that mimic the functionality of natural organs. This article provides a comprehensive overview of the advancements and challenges associated with 3D printing in wound healing.