Topical sevoflurane enhances periodontal wound healing in a male rat palatal mucosal model.

Abstract

OBJECTIVE: The aim of this study is to evaluate the effect of topical sevoflurane, which has recently been reported to possess analgesic, anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties, on secondary wound healing in rat palatal mucosa. DESIGN: Thirty male Wistar Albino rats were randomly divided into three groups: Control, Saline (0.9&#x202f;% NaCl) and Sevoflurane. Standardized full-thickness excisional wounds (4&#x202f;mm) were created on the hard palate, and treatment was applied once daily for 14 days. Wound closure, histopathological healing and immunohistochemical expression of vascular endothelial growth factor, interleukin-17A, interleukin-22 and signal transducer and activator of transcription 3 were evaluated on days 5 and 14. RESULTS: On day 5, the sevoflurane group exhibited smaller wound areas (p&#x202f;<&#x202f;0.05) and greater angiogenesis, epithelialization, and granulation than the control group. On day 14, epithelial integrity and vascular remodeling were most pronounced in the sevoflurane group. IL-22 and pSTAT3 expression levels were higher, while IL-17A expression was lower (p&#x202f;<&#x202f;0.05). VEGF expression decreased over time, indicating progression toward tissue remodeling. CONCLUSIONS: Topical sevoflurane enhances early-stage wound healing by modulating inflammatory and regenerative pathways, promoting angiogenesis, and reducing wound size. These findings suggest that sevoflurane may serve as a novel adjunct for periodontal wound healing.