What is an Epithelialising Wound?

Epithelialisation is the final stage of wound healing and is pink/white in colour. It is the final stage of wound healing and only occurs on top of healthy granulation tissue. During epithelialisation, growth factors stimulate the proliferation of new cells and their migration across the wound. Once they cover the wound surface and meet, they stop dividing - known as contact inhibition. The wound surface is covered by new epithelium and the barrier function of the skin is now restored.

Treatment Aims

Care is needed when cleansing the wound and when removing dressings. Strong adhesives should be avoided to prevent skin stripping and shearing damage.Treatment of epithelialising wounds requires the creation of a warm, moist environment¹. It is important not to allow the wound to dry out, as the epithelial cells will have to burrow deeper underneath the scab to close the wound, and this will prolong healing and result in a less cosmetically acceptable appearance².

References

1. Winter GD (1962) Formation of the scab and the rate of epithelialisation of superficial wounds in the skin of the domestic pig. Nature 193: 293–4

2. Schultz GS, Sibbald RG, Falanga V et al (2003) Wound bed preparation. Wound Repair Regen 11(Suppl 1): S1–28