3D-Printed Gelatin Methacryloyl/Collagen Hydrogel Scaffold as Hemostatic and Antibacterial Wound Dressing

Abstract

Uncontrolled bleeding and wound infections remain critical challenges in clinical trauma management, necessitating advanced dressings that integrate rapid hemostatic, antimicrobial property, and tissue regeneration. In this study, we developed a multifunctional 3D-printed hydrogel scaffold using gelatin methacryloyl (GelMA), collagen, and polyhexamethylene biguanide to address these unmet needs. The GelMA/collagen bioink was optimized for extrusion-based 3D printing through systematic parameter tuning, enabling precise fabrication of porous scaffolds with tailored architectures. The 3D-printed hydrogel dressings were designed to address various wound repair requirements. Experimental results demonstrated their biocompatibility, ability to promote cell proliferation, and antimicrobial efficacy in vitro. Hemostatic performance was evaluated in rat liver and femoral artery bleeding models, whereas a full-thickness wound model in mice assessed their in vivo healing efficacy. The integration of advanced biomaterials with 3D printing technology enables the creation of more efficient and multifunctional wound repair products, providing faster and more effective therapeutic options for patients.