Current challenges and future applications of antibacterial nanomaterials and chitosan hydrogel in burn wound healing

Burns are one of the most devastating skin injuries, with severe burns affecting almost every organ system, and that causes a high mortality rate. The presence of microbial infection in burn wounds makes the healing process more complex, leading to delayed wound healing. Therefore, the primary problem in treating burns is to developing antimicrobial biomaterials to overcome bacterial infection. The present review covers burn classification, the burn wound healing process, and various local treatment methods to fight infection and promote healing. We discussed the recent progress in the treatment of burn wound infection. We provided information on the application of antimicrobial materials in burn treatment in recent years, especially nanoparticles and chitosan hydrogels. We also discuss the promising future therapies for burns and the prospects and limitations for eventual translation to the clinic.