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

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 % NaCl) and Sevoflurane. Standardized full-thickness excisional wounds (4 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 < 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 < 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.