Quick Facts - Biofilm and Inflammation

Normal wound healing moves through the phases of hemostasis, inflammation, cell proliferation or repair, and epithelialization within an established time frame. Numerous factors, however, including biofilm formation, can delay or interrupt the healing process and lead to wound chronicity. Evidence shows that wound bed preparation is a critical step to promote healing. Cleansing, debridement, and the use of antimicrobial agents and dressings all aid in disrupting the biofilm and keeping an acute wound from becoming chronic. This fact sheet contains essential information for wound care professionals on wound healing, biofilm formation and management, and the TIMERS framework for wound bed preparation. The following subjects are covered:Wound healing phasesTIMERS principlesBiofilm composition and functionBiofilm prevention and managementDebridement in biofilm removalAntimicrobial topical agents and dressings