Abstract: Developing self-gelling sponges with adjustable crosslinked networks is significant for efficient wound healing of whole stages. In this study, a multifunctional chitosan-based sponge dressing with microchannel structure and unique self-gelling ability is engineered for whole-stage wound management by balancing internal physical and gamma irradiation-induced chemical crosslinked networks. The coaxial 3D-printed microchannel structure enhances blood absorption and concentration via a large specific surface area, capillary action, and multi-level pores. After blood/exudate absorption, the hydrophilic sponge can transform into a structurally stable hydrogel state by reconstructing physical interactions under hydration. The resulting hydrogel state promotes the release of antibacterial and anti-inflammatory active components and offers a long-term moist healing environment for encouraging cell proliferation and tissue remodeling. For chronic infectious wounds, the faster healing-promoting speed of self-gelling sponges further indicates the positive effect of moist healing. This novel self-gelling sponge dressing can effectively manage wound exudate and maintain a moist healing environment, demonstrating great potential for application and clinical value.

Key words: Chitosan sponge dressing, Self-gelling behavior, Microchannel structure, Infected wound healing