Effect of povidone iodine dermatologic ointment on wound healing.

OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the effect of topical povidone iodine ointment on wound healing. MATERIALS AND METHODS: 60 female mice randomly divided into four groups, A-D. Each mouse had a 2 cm linear incision made on the dorsal skin. Group A had povidone iodine ointment, and group B had ointment base applied for 7 days to the healing incision. Group C were given steroids for 7 days, and group D were allowed to heal without treatment. On Day 8, the strength of the incision was tested with an in vivo tensometer, and the hydroxyproline content of the incision was determined. RESULTS: Using ANOVA and Fischer's LSD test (P < 0.05), povidone iodine as well as steroid groups had significantly reduced wound strengths as compared to the controls and the group with ointment base. No significant difference in the hydroxyproline content was seen. CONCLUSIONS: Povidone iodine significantly reduces wound strength without reducing the total hydroxyproline content of the wound.