Introduction: Years of tissue engineering research have clearly demonstrated the potential of integrating growth factors (GFs) into scaffolds for tissue regeneration, a concept that has recently been applied to wound dressings. The old concept of wound dressings that only take a passive role in wound healing has now been overtaken, and advanced dressings which can take an active part in wound healing, are of current research interest. Areas covered: In this review we will focus on the recent strategies for the delivery of GFs to wound sites with an emphasis on the different approaches used to achieve fine tuning of spatial and temporal concentrations to achieve therapeutic efficacy. Expert opinion: The use of GFs to accelerate wound healing and reduce scar formation is now considered a feasible therapeutic approach in patients with a high risk of infections and complications. The integration of micro – and nanotechnologies into wound dressings could be the key to overcome the inherent instability of GFs and offer adequate control over the release rate. Many investigations have led to encouraging outcomes in various in vitro and in vivo wound models, and it is expected that some of these technologies will satisfy clinical needs and will enter commercialization.

Surgical meshes play a significant role in the treatment of various medical conditions, such as hernias, pelvic floor issues, guided bone regeneration, and wound healing. To date, commercial surgical meshes are typically made of non-absorbable synthetic polymers, notably polypropylene and polytetrafluoroethylene, which are associated with postoperative complications, such as infections. Biological meshes, based on native tissues, have been employed to overcome such complications, though mechanical strength has been a main disadvantage. The right balance in mechanical and biological performances has been achieved by the advent of bioresorbable meshes. Despite improvements, recurrence of clinical complications associated with surgical meshes raises significant concerns regarding the technical adequacy of current materials and designs, pointing to a crucial need for further development. To this end, current research focuses on the design of meshes capable of biomimicking native tissue and facilitating the healing process without post-operative complications. Researchers are actively investigating advanced bioresorbable materials, both synthetic and natural biopolymers, while also exploring the performance of therapeutic agents, surface modification methods and advanced manufacturing technologies such as 4D printing. This review seeks to evaluate emerging biomaterials and technologies for enhancing the performance and clinical applicability of the next-generation of surgical meshes. STATEMENT OF SIGNIFICANCE: In the ever-transforming landscape of regenerative medicine, the embracement of engineered bioabsorbable surgical meshes stands as a key borderline in addressing persistent challenges and complications associated with existing treatments. The urgency to move beyond conventional non-absorbable meshes, fraught with post-surgery complications, emphasises the necessity of using advanced biomaterials for engineered tissue regeneration. This review critically examines the growing field of absorbable surgical meshes, considering their potential to transform clinical practice. By strategically marrying mechanical strength with bioresorbable characteristics, these innovative meshes hold the promise of mitigating complications and improving patient outcomes across diverse medical applications. As we navigate the complexities of current medicine, this exploration of engineered absorbable meshes emerges as a light of hope, offering an overall perspective on biomaterials, technologies, and strategies adopted to redefine the future of surgical meshes.