Hybrid‐Layer Pectin/ PVA –Chitosan/Gelatin Hydrocolloid Dressing With Lidocaine and Vancomycin for Burn Wound Healing

Abstract

Burn wound management requires multifunctional dressings that can simultaneously maintain a moist healing environment, provide localized analgesia, and prevent microbial colonization. In this study, an advanced bilayer hydrocolloid dressing was developed by integrating a pectin–PVA–lidocaine (LDC) lower layer for immediate pain management with a chitosan–gelatin–vancomycin (VH) upper layer for sustained antibacterial protection. The physicochemical properties and intermolecular interactions of the bilayer hydrocolloid dressing were comprehensively characterized using FTIR, XRD, DSC/TGA, SEM, and XPS analyses. Swelling and degradation assays demonstrated that the hybrid films possess high fluid‐handling capacity (reaching 309% swelling). Mechanical characterization showed superior durability with a tensile strength of 50.8 MPa and 63% elongation at break. In vitro studies confirmed a synchronized biphasic release profile for both LDC and VH, following a Quasi‐Fickian diffusion mechanism. Biological assessments using L929 fibroblasts showed high cytocompatibility (viability > 125%), while antibacterial assays demonstrated robust inhibition against S. aureus and E. coli . These findings suggest that the dual‐layered hybrid architecture provides a clinically relevant, synergistic platform for the next generation of advanced burn wound treatments.