Assessing Topical Phenytoin's Therapeutic Potential for Electric Burn Regenerative Treatment

Thermal burn injuries represent a significant burden, particularly in developing nations, where they inflict both physical and psychological trauma. Early wound healing promotion is critical to mitigate associated complications. Phenytoin, readily available, is recognized for its potential to expedite wound healing. This study aims to evaluate the healing effects of topical phenytoin on second and third-degree burn wounds. This study was performed in A 13year-old male child with alleged history of electrocution with fall from height - touched a high tension electric wire while climbing a tree. He underwent topical application of intravenous phenytoin solution every three days. Data collection encompassed demographic information, tissue culture results, wound discharge volume, pain severity, granulation tissue appearance, and wound contraction. Initially colonized with pathogenic bacteria, the wounds demonstrated no impediment to phenytoin-induced healing. Following 3-5 phenytoin sessions, wound discharge significantly decreased, along with notable pain alleviation reported by patients. Digital planimetry revealed progressive wound contraction in all cases. Conclusion: Our findings suggest that topical phenytoin application fosters progressive wound contraction, re-epithelialization, reduced discharge, and pain relief, culminating in expedited wound healing. Some cases also exhibited a bacteriostatic effect. Further controlled trials are warranted to corroborate these observations.