The impact of infection on acute wound healing is multifaceted, resulting in disruption to every stage of wound healing. At present, there are significant challenges associated with the diagnosis and treatment of wound infection, with the inappropriate use of antimicrobial dressings potentially resulting in poorer wound healing. The relative risks of contamination of high quantities of bacteria and of virulent species is yet to be fully elucidate. However the important symbiotic relationship between bacteria and host immunity is well recognised. The consequences of acute wound infection for patients may include surgical wound dehiscence, pain, prolonged hospital stays and psychological stress, which may in themselves become detrimental to wound healing. This article presents an overview of the impact of infection on acute wound healing considering each of the four stages involved.
