Effect of Ointment Containing Epithelial Growth Factor Compared with Antibacterial Ointment in Avulsive Laceration

Abstract

Background: Avulsive lacerations are more likely to cause complications such as necrosis and dehiscence than vertical lacerations. In laceration wounds, topical antimicrobials can be effective because of their antibacterial properties that help eliminate infection or biofilms from the wound bed. However, indiscriminate or habitual use of antibiotics may cause bacterial tolerance. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the effectiveness of an ointment containing epidermal growth factor (EGF), effective in healing wounds involving epithelial and skin cells, compared with an antibiotic ointment for avulsive lacerations.Methods: We recruited patients who visited the emergency department with avulsive lacerations on their faces. The selected patients were randomly prescribed for dressing either an ofloxacin ointment or EGF ointment after repair. Epidemiologic information of patients, wound assessment (size, depth, and location) and wound healing result assessments (necrosis/dehiscence) were evaluated.Results: Of the 119 participants, 42 were women and 77 were men. The average length of the lacerations was 2.15 cm and most lacerations were in the muscle layer. There was no difference in the incidence of dehiscence and necrosis after use of either ointment, but the ratio of the necrotic area was significantly lower in EGF ointment group (antibiotics ointment, 2.33% and EGF ointment, 0%; P=0.03).Conclusion: We conclude that the ointment containing EGF can be used to replace the antimicrobial-containing ointment often used to prevent infection, which is in turn followed by skin or soft tissue necrosis.