Abstract

Thermal burn injuries impose significant physical and psychological distress, particularly in under developed regions. Facilitating early wound healing is paramount to mitigate ensuing complications. Phenytoin, easily accessible, has emerged as a potential agent for expediting wound recovery. This study endeavours to assess the therapeutic efficacy of topical phenytoin in second and third-degree burn injuries. The research involved a 70-year-old female with thermal burns affecting both gluteal regions. Intravenous phenytoin solution was topically applied every two days. Data collection encompassed demographic details, tissue culture findings, wound discharge, pain intensity, granulation tissue formation, and wound contraction. Self-inflicted burns predominated the cases examined. Despite initial colonization with pathogenic bacteria, phenytoin treatment did not impede wound healing. Following 2-4 sessions, a significant reduction in wound discharge and pain relief was observed. Digital planimetry demonstrated progressive wound contraction across all cases. In conclusion, topical phenytoin application demonstrated efficacy in promoting wound contraction, reepithelialization, and alleviating pain, thereby expediting wound healing. Furthermore, some cases exhibited a bacteriostatic effect. Nevertheless, further rigorous trials are imperative to validate these findings.

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