In this study the clinical and histopathological effects of topically applied tripeptide-
copper complex (TCC) and
zinc oxide on open-wound healing in rabbits was evaluated. Eighteen New Zealand rabbits were divided into three groups: TCC,
zinc oxide and no treatment. One full thickness
wound was created on each side of the dorsal midline in each rabbit.
Wound margins were traced on days 0, 7, 14, and 21 and topical TCC and
zinc oxide were applied daily for 21 days to each rabbit in the respective treatment groups. The mean unhealed
wound area was significantly smaller in the TCC than in the
zinc oxide group on day 7, but it was significantly smaller in the TCC group than in to the control group on days 7, 14 and 21. The mean percentage of
wound contraction on day 7 was significantly higher in the TCC than in the
zinc oxide group; however, it was significantly higher in the TCC group than in the control group on days 7, 14 and 21. Median time for the coverage of the
wound bed with granulation tissue was significantly shorter in the TCC group than in the other groups. Filling of the open
wound with granulation tissue to skin level was significantly slower in the control group than in the other two groups. Neutrophil counts decreased regardless of the group in parallel with healing, while neovascularization was best observed in the TCC group. The results suggest that TCC is a better choice in the treatment protocols of open
wounds in rabbits than
zinc oxide.