A strain-programmed lignin-based Janus patch for rapid healing of postoperative rectal wounds.

Rationale: Clinically, patients experience severe pain, frequent bleeding, and delayed wound healing after hemorrhoidectomy due to recurrent fecal contamination during postoperative dressing changes and bowel movements, which exacerbate wound irritation.

Methods

In this study, we developed a strain-programmed lignin-based multifunctional Janus patch (S-SFR@AGL) to accelerate rectal wound repair. This patch features a pre-stretched fluorinated silicone rubber side with robust anti-biofouling and strain-programmed properties, paired with a lignin-based hydrogel side offering potent antibacterial, antioxidant, bioadhesive, and hemostatic capabilities.

Results

By modulating the wound's mechanical microenvironment and combating infection-induced inflammation, the patch healed infected rat rectal wounds within one week via effective bacterial clearance, attenuated inflammatory responses, and promoted muscle contraction and epithelial cell differentiation.

Conclusions

This Janus patch could shorten intestinal wound healing time, potentially optimizing postoperative management after intestinal lesion resection.