Effect of Gentamicin Collagen Sponge on Wound Healing: In Vivo Study and Assessment of Its Effectiveness against Nosocomial Bacteria

Abstract

Background: Gentamicin collagen sponge (Genta-Coll) reportedly has a hemostatic effect and promotes wound healing. However, it may also interfere with wound healing by causing foreign body reactions. We planned to analyze the effect of Genta-Coll on wound healing by inducing muscle defects in the rectus abdominis muscle of rats. We also assessed the effectiveness of Genta-Coll in preventing surgical site infections (SSIs) using the zone of inhibition tests to determine the sensitivity of pathogenic bacteria.Methods: We created an 8×8-mm muscle defect in both recti abdominis of 15 white Sprague-Dawley rats and distributed them into the control group (no care) and group A (Genta-Coll). Three biopsies were performed for histologic analysis (on days 3, 7, and 27). In the second study, we placed Genta-Coll on Mueller–Hinton agar plates seeded with pathogenic microorganisms commonly responsible for SSIs. The zone of inhibition was measured after 24 and 48 hours of incubation.Results: Group A showed a slightly higher score for foreign body giant cells and inflammation, with no significant difference. Granulation and neovascularization were constantly high in group A, and muscle regeneration was also high in group A. Extracellular matrix formation advanced at a similar pace in both groups. Genta-Coll created a zone of inhibition against all microorganisms except for Candida albicans. The effect lasted without change between 24 and 48 hours.Conclusion: While foreign body reactions and inflammation increased in group A, wound healing was unaffected. Genta-Coll can promote faster wound healing with an anti-bactericidal effect against SSI pathogens.