Trauma
A wound is defined as a violent disruption of the continuity of the skin caused by mechanical, thermal, chemical, or radiation factors. The final result of wound healing is the formation of a scar through a process known as cicatrization. Different types of wounds, through this process, lead to different types of scars.
Wounds are divided into two categories: those without loss of skin and those with loss of skin.
A healthy body responds to every injury with a sequence of predetermined mechanisms aimed at healing. From the moment tissue is injured, the body attempts to limit further blood loss and prevent the invasion of pathogenic microorganisms by closing the wound as quickly as possible. Initially, a platelet plug forms to stop bleeding and activate the healing process. The process passes through several phases, which overall last 6–12 months, until full tissue restoration is achieved.
The plastic surgeon managing a wound aims to restore the tissues to their previous condition by removing any devitalized tissue and closing the wound with the least possible tension. If there is significant skin loss and the wound cannot be closed directly, closure may be attempted by transferring tissue from other areas of the body in the form of flaps or by using skin grafts. If closure is not possible, the wound is left to heal by secondary intention, with the help of healing materials and specialized dressings that promote recovery.
Factors affecting wound healing
Normal wound healing is influenced by various factors that may result in delayed healing, reduced mechanical strength of the scar, and even disfiguring scars. Among the most important factors that negatively affect healing are smoking, diabetes mellitus, and generally conditions or disorders that impair blood circulation in the injured area.
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