The Effects of Hydrogen Peroxide Solution and Tetracycline Ointment in Healing of Traumatic Facial Wounds: A Comparative Study

Background and objectives Wound repair after a surgical operation or traumatic injuries is a coordinated process, which is highly dependent to the pre- and post-operative or traumatic care. There is no consensus on the best wound care method and application of topical therapeutic agents including diluted oxygen peroxide solution and antibiotics. This study is aimed to compare the healing effects of oxygen peroxide and tetracycline ointment in management of traumatic facial injuries. Methods 76 patients divided into two groups were entered into this randomized clinical trial. All patients sustained facial injuries requiring primary repair. The first group received 2% topical oxygen peroxide solution for 5 days, and the second group received sterile 1% tetracycline topical ointment for 5days. At the end of the fourth day, wound healing status was assessed with a chart designed for this purpose. Results No statistically significant difference was observed between the tetracycline and hydrogen peroxide groups in regards to the distance of wound margins, erythema and dehiscence. Conclusion According to our results, there is no difference in the effects of hydrogen peroxide solution or tetracycline ointment on the healing of traumatic facial wounds.