Wounds represent a grave affliction that profoundly impacts human well-being. Establishing barriers, preventing
infections, and providing a conducive microenvironment constitute the crux of
wound therapy.
Hydrogel, a
polymer with an intricate three-dimensional lattice, serves as a potent tool in erecting physical barriers and nurturing an environment conducive to wound healing. This enables effective control over exudation, hemostasis, accelerated
wound closure, and diminished
scar formation. As a result,
hydrogels have gained extensive
traction in the realm of
wound treatment. Metallic nanoparticle carriers, characterized by their multifaceted responses encompassing acoustics, optics, and electronics, have demonstrated efficacy in
wound management. Nevertheless, these carriers encounter challenges associated with swift clearance and nonuniform effectiveness. The hybridization of metallic nanoparticle carriers with
hydrogels overcomes the shortcomings inherent in metallic nanoparticle-based
wound therapy. This amalgamation not only addresses the limitations but also augments the mechanical robustness of
hydrogels. It confers upon them attributes such as environmental responsiveness and multifunctionality, thereby synergizing strengths and compensating for weaknesses. This integration culminates in the precise and intelligent management of
wounds. This review encapsulates the structural classifications, design strategies, therapeutic applications, and underlying mechanisms of metal nanoparticle hybrid
hydrogels in the context of acute and chronic
wound treatment. The discourse delves into the generation of novel or enhanced attributes arising from hybridization and how the current paradigm of
wound therapy leverages these attributes. Amidst this continually evolving frontier, the potential of metal nanoparticle hybrid
hydrogels to revolutionize
wound treatment is underscored.