Evaluation of effect of topical application of 3% citric acid on wound healing

Abstract

Background-Wound healing is a complex process influenced by multiple factors. This study looks for the efficacy of 3% citric acid as pH modifying dressing when compared to conventional method. The pH within the wound milieu indirectly and directly affects the various biochemical reactions in the wound healing. Materials and methods-An unicentric, prospective , randomised study with a parallel design was used to compare patients treated with conventional dressing and with 3% citric acid respectively. The wounds were examined for 14 days and parameters of healing were evaluated. The results were analysed using chi-square test and unpaired t-test. Results-Use of citric acid made the wound surface acidic (4-6). Patients treated with citric acid (72.06%) showed more reduction in wound size than those who were treated by conventional method (67.40%). The increase in granulation area was more when citric acid (65.36%) was used than that in control group (60.60%). Wounds treated with citric acid showed early reduction in amount of discharge as compared to control group. The mean hospital stay of patients in citric acid group (7.74 days) was comparatively less than that of patients in control group (10.38 days). Conclusion-3% citric acid is safe and effective in all types of wound management. It acts by reducing pH of wound surface and inhibits bacterial proliferation. It aids in early healing by promoting formation of healthy granulation tissue.