Crocodile Oil Enhances Cutaneous Burn Wound Healing and Reduces Scar Formation In Rats
This randomized controlled trial evaluated the role of crocodile oil for healing second-degree burns and reducing scar formation. Crocodile oil is rich in monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fats and is commonly used in traditional Chinese and Southeast Asian medicine. The investigators used a rat model with second-degree burns that were independently exposed to 3 variables: silver sulfadiazine, crocodile oil, or saline (control group). The measured outcomes were wound contraction, epidermal/dermal thickness, and transforming growth factor-β/Smad3 messenger RNA signaling (which stimulates connective tissue accumulation and fibrotic formation).
Burns treated with crocodile oil had improved wound closure, producing smoother skin with a more normal color. Histological examination revealed that wounds treated with crocodile oil healed much better, with full-thickness reepithelialization, better hair follicle structure, and thinner epidermis. Additionally, the expression of transforming growth factor-β/Smad3 was reduced in wounds treated with crocodile oil, indicating the negative expression of fibrotic-forming cellular pathways. Because the study was performed in an animal model, a limitation is its application for humans. Nevertheless, the authors concluded that crocodile oil can enhance the wound healing of second-degree burns and reduce scar formation.
(Acad Emerg Med. 2012;19:265-273). H Li, L Chen, Y Hu, et al.
Prepared by Matthew Stewart, MD, University of Utah Emergency Medicine Resident, Salt Lake City, UT, USA