Development and Characterization of Nano-Chitosan-Polyvinyl Alcohol-Glycerol -Chlorhexidine Films for Wound Healing Applications

Abstract

The process of wound healing is intricate and dynamic, requiring advanced medical care for a speedy recovery. Currently available semi-permeable wound dressings fall short in efficiently absorbing excess wound exudates to facilitate moist wound care, a crucial factor for promoting effective wound healing. Additionally, efforts have been made to enhance the antibacterial properties of wound dressings by incorporating antimicrobials into films. In this study, films were development using nanochitosan-polyvinyl alcohol-glycerol-chlorhexidine (NC-PVA-GLY-CLX) for applications in wound healing. The dressings were subjected to various characterizations, including UV-Visible spectrometry, Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy, Scanning Electron Microscopy, Thermogravimetric analysis, and X‑ray diffraction pattern. Furthermore, the resulting film dressings underwent evaluation for their bactericidal properties. The findings indicated that the incorporation of chlorhexidine into the films has positively influenced the fluid holding capacity and the active period of the dressing, creating a favourable environment for effective wound healing.