Recent Advances in Biodegradable Polymers for Wound Dressings, Infection, and Diabetes Treatment: A Review
Mahdi Farhadi, Shahab Moghari, Muhammad Naqvi, Hossein Ali Khonakdar
Abstract
ABSTRACT Biodegradable polymers have revolutionized biomedical engineering by offering safe, adaptable, and patient‐friendly alternatives for the treatment of wounds, infections, and diabetes. Their ability to degrade into non‐toxic byproducts eliminates the need for surgical removal, reduces long‐term complications, and enables localized, sustained delivery of therapeutic agents. This review provides a comprehensive overview of recent advances in biodegradable polymer systems, highlighting both natural and synthetic materials such as chitosan, PLGA, PEG, and alginate. It examines how innovations in fabrication techniques, including electrospinning, 3D printing, and injectable hydrogels, have enabled the creation of smart, multifunctional platforms for targeted and responsive therapies. The review explores a wide array of biomedical applications, with dedicated sections on wound dressings (general, bacterial‐infected, and diabetic), insulin delivery systems, and implantable devices for type 2 diabetes management. Special attention is given to stimuli‐responsive systems that adapt to physiological conditions such as pH, glucose levels, or oxidative stress, enabling precision medicine approaches. Furthermore, the integration of nanotechnology, bioactive agents, and real‐time biosensing into biodegradable matrices has opened new avenues for personalized care and therapeutic monitoring. By bringing together recent research, clinical insights, and emerging challenges, this paper highlights the growing impact of biodegradable polymers in advancing regenerative medicine and improving the lives of people with chronic conditions.