Introduction

INTRODUCTION

Wound healing is a complex and dynamic biological process. In human adults, the normal response to injury across all organ systems typically results in fibrosis and scar formation. Fibrotic healing causes tissue dysfunction and its potential impact on patients is often underappreciated. This contrasts with early gestation when fetal tissues can remarkably heal without fibrosis. Regenerative medicine is therefore an exciting field of research. A better understanding of the mechanisms involved can potentially help reduce the global burden of disease asso ciated with wound healing. This chapter describes the patho physiology of wound healing, the types of healing and how to classify wounds. Clinical judgement is crucial in managing wounds. A framework is provided to better understand the key principles of wound and scar management.