Abstract
Abstract
Wound healing is a complex and dynamic response to injury which can be divided into three phases: inflammation, re‐epithelialization and matrix remodelling. Interactions are required between keratinocytes, fibroblasts, endothelial cells and inflammatory cells, growth factors, extracellular matrix and enzymes called proteases. Foetal wounds can heal without scarring. However, wounds in children and adults heal with a remodelling phase resulting in a scar. Non‐healing or chronic wounds occur because of infection or pressure as well as systemic factors such as ischaemia or diabetes mellitus. Abnormal scarring results in hypertrophic or keloid scars. Recent advances in stem cell biology and tissue engineering will provide new wound healing therapies.