ABSTRACT
PURPOSE: To investigate diclofenac topical gel as an alternative to reduce phlogistic signals and maintain quality of wound repair. METHODS: Fifteen Wistar rats were used in this study; four excisional wounds were performed on the dorsum of each animal. Once in a day, cranial wounds received topical diclofenac gel administration and caudal wounds were washed with isotonic saline. After seven, 14 and 21 postoperative days, five animals were randomly chosen for macroscopic and microscopic wound analysis. RESULTS: On the 7th day: diclofenac wounds showed significant higher scab formation, however showed less phlogistic signal; diclofenac wounds had larger area and had less neutrophil invasion. On the 14th day: No area difference was noted and diclofenac wounds showed less hyperemia and phlogistic signals; diclofenac wounds showed greater keratinocytes invasion. On the 21st day: Almost all wounds were closed and there were no difference regarding the type of scar formation; diclofenac wounds showed greater monocytes invasion and lower angiogenesis level. No difference was noted in any postoperative day regarding fibroblast invasion, collagen deposit quantity and quality. CONCLUSION: Diclofenac topical gel is capable of reducing phlogistic signals and do not cause fibroblast or keratinocyte downregulation thus do not lead to excisional wound healing impairment. .