Photothermally Antibacterial Piezoelectric Composite Dressing Synergized with Endogenous Electrical Stimulation for Wound Healing

Background: Photothermal therapy (PTT), a highly efficient and controllable method with minimal drug resistance, transforms near-infrared (NIR) radiation into heat. This process exerts antibacterial effects, aids in tissue repair, and promotes healing. Methods: Our study presented a novel kind of composite wound dressing that incorporated an adhesive conductive hydrogel (PTP) combined with a piezoelectric film (P/M) for NIR- responsive applications. The inherent adhesiveness of the hydrogel ensured robust anchoring of the piezoelectric film to both hydrogel matrix and wound site. Its conductivity enabled synergistic endogenous electrical stimulation with the piezoelectric film, while also serving as therapeutic layer to augment hemostasis, analgesia, and antibacterial activity. Results: The hydrogel’s capacity for moisture retention and exudate absorption sustained optimal wound environment, thereby supporting debridement and recovery. Furthermore, the P/M film possessed excellent photothermal properties and transferred heat to the hydrogel through heat conduction to enhance antibacterial activity and promote wound healing. The in vitro and in vivo experiments confirmed that the composite dressing exhibited strong promotion effect on wound healing under NIR irradiation. Conclusions: In summary, our research provided a new strategy for developing advanced piezoelectric biomaterials with great clinical potential for wound healing.