Biohydrogels with Adaptogens: Advancing Chronic Wound Healing in Orthopedic Surgery

Introduction:
Chronic wounds pose significant challenges in clinical practice, particularly in orthopedic surgery, where tissue repair is crucial for recovery. Biohydrogels enriched with adaptogens, natural compounds known for their stress-modulating and regenerative properties, offer a novel approach to enhancing wound healing. This study explores the development and application of biohydrogels containing adaptogens for innovative therapies targeting chronic wounds.

Methods:
Biohydrogels were synthesized using natural and synthetic polymers, including alginate (3% w/v) and polyvinyl alcohol (10% w/v), enriched with adaptogens such as ginseng extract (from 1% to 5% w/v) and ashwagandha (from 1% to 5% w/v). We characterized properties including mechanical strength , swelling ratio (from 180% to 380%) and biodegradation. In vitro studies evaluated biocompatibility and the effect of adaptogens on fibroblast proliferation (viability >92% after 7 days (p < 0.05))and collagen synthesis. The hydrogels were further tested for their antimicrobial properties and ability to support tissue regeneration in chronic wound models.

Results:
The biohydrogels demonstrated excellent water retention and mechanical stability, suitable for prolonged wound coverage. Adaptogen-enriched hydrogels significantly enhanced fibroblast proliferation and collagen deposition compared to control hydrogels. Antimicrobial tests confirmed reduced bacterial growth, creating a favorable environment for healing. The preliminary in vivo models indicated accelerated wound closure and reduced inflammation in chronic wound conditions.

Conclusions:
Biohydrogels containing adaptogens represent an innovative therapeutic option for chronic wound management in orthopedic surgery and beyond. Their unique properties, combining enhanced regenerative capacity with antimicrobial effects, make them a promising solution for improving patient outcomes.

Acknowledgments: This project was financed with funds from the state budget granted by the Minister of Science within the framework of the "Student Scientific Clubs Create Innovations" (SKN/SP/601893/2024) "Application of Biohydrogels Containing Adaptogens in Innovative Chronic Wound Therapy" . This research was carried out within the SMART-MAT Functional Materials Science Club (section Smart-Mat) at the Faculty of Materials Engineering and Physics of the Cracow University of Technology.