The effects of hyaluronic acid gel on the healing of oral mucosa

ABSTRACT

PURPOSE: In spite of various advantages of hyaluronic acid in wound healing, there are few research about wound healing process and period in oral and maxillofacial surgery. So, We evaluated the effects of local application of hyaluronic acid gel on wound healing of the oral mucosa using this animal model. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Young adult New Zealand White rabbits, weighting between 2.5 and 3.0kg, were used. Almost uniform round ulcerscould be created on the gingival of the rabbits by chemical injury with acetic acid. In experimental group, hyaluronic acid gel was applied daily until the wounds healed and in control group, ulcer lesion was not any treatment. The lengths of ulcers were measured the longest and shortest axes of the ulcers and calculated the areas of ulcer. For histological examination, specimens were made, and observed under a light microscope. RESULTS: The results showed that the number of fibroblasts, new blood vessels and the epithelial thickness from experimental group was higher than from control group. Hyaluronic acid promoted proliferation of the fibroblast, keratinocytes isolated from gingival tissue of rabbits in vitro. Topical application of hyaluronic acid accelerated healing of ulcers created in rabbits. CONCLUSION: The hyaluronic acid may be effective for wound healing of oral mucosal lesions.