The use of intralesional epidermal growth factor in the treatment of diabetic foot ulcers

Abstract

Aims: The mitogenic and cell protective effects of epidemal growth factor (EGF) in wound healing stimulate the growth, re-covering the surface of the wound area. In this research we tried to elucidate the effectiveness of intradermal EGF application on wound healing in diabetic foot ulcers regarding the fact that EGF can accelerate the formation of skin cover layer on the infected surface, even in relatively ischemic cases. Methods: The data of 68 patients who applied to our institution’s orthopedics and wound care outpatient clinic with the diagnosis of diabetic foot ulcer, who underwent wound care, debridement and follow-up were retrospectively analyzed. All of the patients included in this study were classified as Wagner Stage III and Stage IV diabetic foot ulcers and were followed up with standard wound care. EGF application was initiated if there was not enough bleeding on the wound borders and defect floor after debridement. Results: The rate of patients with 50% or more granulation in the second week of treatment in the groups was 35.7% (n=10) in the standard treatment group, it was 60% (n=24) in the EGF group (p