Effect of Local Application of Phenytoin on Wound Healing in Surgical Wounds: A Scientific Review

Year : 2026 | Volume : 15 | Issue : 01 | Page : 15 19
    By

    Richa Jaiman,

  • Bhavana Verma,

  • Abhishek Pankaj,

  1. Professor, Department of Surgery, Sarojini Naidu Medical College, Agra, Uttar Pradesh, India
  2. Assistant Professor, Department of Surgery, Sarojini Naidu Medical College, Agra, Uttar Pradesh, India
  3. Resident, Department of Surgery, Sarojini Naidu Medical College, Agra, Uttar Pradesh, India

Abstract

Surgical wound healing is a dynamic biological process influenced by local tissue response, vascularity, infection control, and systemic patient factors. Delayed wound healing contributes significantly to postoperative morbidity and healthcare costs. Phenytoin, a hydantoin derivative traditionally used as an antiepileptic agent, has demonstrated unexpected wound-healing properties when applied topically. This review critically evaluates experimental and clinical evidence regarding the role of locally applied phenytoin in enhancing wound healing in surgical wounds. Available data suggests that topical phenytoin accelerates granulation tissue formation, promotes fibroblast proliferation, enhances collagen deposition, and improves wound tensile strength. Clinical studies in surgical and procedure-related wounds report faster epithelialization and reduced healing time with minimal adverse effects. However, heterogeneity in study design, formulation, and outcome assessment limits definitive conclusions. This review highlights current evidence, mechanistic insights, clinical applicability, and areas requiring further high-quality research.

Keywords: Collagen deposition, epithelialization, fibroblast proliferation, granulation tissue, surgical wound healing, topical phenytoin, wound tensile strength

[This article belongs to Research and Reviews : Journal of Surgery ]

How to cite this article:
Richa Jaiman, Bhavana Verma, Abhishek Pankaj. Effect of Local Application of Phenytoin on Wound Healing in Surgical Wounds: A Scientific Review. Research and Reviews : Journal of Surgery. 2026; 15(01):15-19.
How to cite this URL:
Richa Jaiman, Bhavana Verma, Abhishek Pankaj. Effect of Local Application of Phenytoin on Wound Healing in Surgical Wounds: A Scientific Review. Research and Reviews : Journal of Surgery. 2026; 15(01):15-19. Available from: https://journals.stmjournals.com/rrjos/article=2026/view=240639


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Regular Issue Subscription Review Article
Volume 15
Issue 01
Received 28/12/2025
Accepted 02/02/2026
Published 30/03/2026
Publication Time 92 Days
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