Collagen Protein Sponge Impregnated Epidermal Growth Factor Repair Achilles Tendon Exposed Wound In Rabbit

Objective: To study the effect of collagen protein sponge impregnated epidermal growth factor repair Achilles tendon exposed wound in rabbit. To explore a new therapeutic approach heal tendon exposed wound.Methods: Twenty-four adult white rabbits of 3-month-old were devided as randomly into 3 groups. A long 1.5cm and wide 1.0cm Achilles tendon exposed wound was created in each rabbit's right hind limb by operation. 3 groups were treated as follows: Collagen protein sponge / Recombinant human epidermal growth factor (rhEGF) were used in group A. Recombinant human epidermal growth factor (rhEGF) was used in group B. Normal saline was used in group C.Each rabbit's wound was dressed 1 time every 2 days ,until the wound healing. Every wound was photographed with a digital camera when dressing. Every rabbit's wound status, shrinkage ratio and wound healing time were observed and recorded.The results was compared and analyzed.After wound healing, each wound skin were collected to specimens. Each specimen was stained in HE coloring.Under light microscope,the histologic change was observed and compared.Results: All laboratory rabbit's Achilles tendon exposed wounds were healed. The healing time of wounds with Achilles tendon exposure was shorter in group A (23.25±1.98 days) than those in group B (27.13±2.30 dyas) and group C (31.38±2.88 dyas),showing statistically significant difference (P <0.01).Histopathology: Healed skin of group A and B was closed to normal skin tissues, especially the skin of group A, improving the quality of the healed wounds of Achilles tendon exposed, obviously.Conclusions: Collagen protein sponge impregnated epidermal growth factor can promote the healing of Achilles tendon exposed wound and improve the quality of the healed wound.