Anatomy and Physiology of Wound Healing

Abstract

To ensure the restoration of the integrity and function of the skin, a sequence of carefully orchestrated steps are engaged in the multifaceted process of cutaneous wound healing. Most importantly, the function of lipids in wound healing is explored with focus on how they augment restoration of barrier function, modulate inflammation, induce cell proliferation, and promote remodeling. Lipids including phospholipids, sphingolipids, and ceramides are required for membrane structure, cell signal, and tissue repair. Normal wound healing occurs in three successive but overlapping phases: the remodeling phase, the proliferative phase, and the hemostasis/inflammatory phase. Hypertrophic scar and keloid wounds are examples of wound healing abnormalities that compromise normal physical function.