OBJECTIVE: A randomized double blind placebo controlled trial was undertaken to compare the effect of topical Mupirocin ointment and Aloe vera with Vitamin E cream versus a placebo on post surgical wound healing.
METHODS: A total of 101 patients with primary elective vertical infraumbilical incision were enrolled in the investigative study. Mupirocin ointment was used in 34 patients, Aloe vera with vitamin E cream in 33 patients and placebo in 34 patients. First application was immediately post operation prior to occlusive dressing followed by application on the third day post operation. The assigned topical agent was used for daily wound care. Would healing was assessed on the third postoperative day, first, second and third week post surgery. Wound infection, contact allergic dermatitis and would healing characteristics specially redness, edema, presence of wound discharge and wound dehiscence were evaluated.
RESULTS: There were no recorded cases of wound infection and allergic contact dermatitis among the patients enrolled in the different study groups at any time during the post surgery evaluation. Comparing the occurrence of the different wound healing characteristics, there were no significant differences during the first post operative day up to first to third week post operation evaluations.
CONCLUSION: Topical application of these agents before occlusive dressing immediately post operation and its use in daily wound care up to three weeks post operation did not show significant benefit for the patient.