Collagen aids in expediting the healing framework of diabetic ulcers

Abstract

Objective

Wound healing is a complex, intricate process that amalgamates various cells and cellular processes. In a country like India which is credited to being as diabetic capital the challenge with diabetic ulcers is increasing day by day. Diabetic ulcers are quite difficult to treat as vasculopathy, neuropathy and immunopathy join hands to stymie the healing mechanisms. This study is conducted to assess the wound contraction rate, collagen content and histochemical evaluation in a diabetic foot ulcer.

Methods

A prospective study was done in 40 patients during the period of June 2012 to June 2017. 40 patients split into 20 each comprised the control and experimental group with control and experimental group treated with saline & collagen dressing respectively. Parameters used for assessment included wound contraction rate, quantitative collagen content and histochemical analysis. Wound Healing was evaluated on day 7, day 15 and day 30.

Results

There was statistically significant difference in wound contraction rate and increase in quantitative expression of collagen in patients treated with exogenous collagen particles. Abundant collagen matrix deposition was seen in histopathological studies with this group.

Conclusion

Collagen with its Triple helical structure aids in the healing mechanism by imparting tensile strength to the wound by bridging various processes resulting in fibroplasias and epidermal resurfacing. This could possibly aid in expediting the sequential but overlapping phases by cementing fruitful interactions between cellular and extracellular matrix interfaces.