From Wound Coverage to Functional Healing: A Narrative Review of Biomaterial Applications in Head and Neck Mucosal Defects.

BACKGROUND

Reconstruction of head and neck mucosal defects presents unique challenges due to the anatomical complexity and functional demands of the region. Artificial biomaterials such as collagen and polyglycolic acid (PGA) sheets have gained clinical traction owing to their ease of use and reduced surgical burden. However, limitations such as local inflammation, degradation-related complications, and mechanical instability-particularly in highly mobile areas like the tongue-continue to hinder their broader application.

METHODS

A narrative review was performed, categorizing currently available biomaterials and evaluating their clinical performance, with particular attention to inflammatory responses and wound healing outcomes. Emerging materials, including fish skin-derived matrices, ex vivo-produced oral mucosal equivalents (EVPOME), bioactive glasses (BAG), PLGA-based drug delivery systems, and electrospun membranes, are also explored.

RESULTS

These next-generation biomaterials aim to provide more than passive wound coverage by incorporating functionalities such as anti-inflammatory effects, antimicrobial activity, and sustained drug release.

CONCLUSIONS

Infection control, mucosal mobility, and material customization remain significant challenges. Biomaterials capable of actively regulating inflammation and promoting functional mucosal regeneration are garnering increasing interest as promising platforms, with high expectations for their future development, preclinical validation, and eventual clinical application. This review provides a comprehensive overview of both current and future biomaterial strategies for head and neck mucosal repair, and outlines future directions for the development of more effective and functional biomaterials.