Surgery
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Sodium diphenylhydantoin (DpH) (phenytoin) was first introduced as an antiepileptic in 1938. One of its side effects, gingival hyperplasia, prompted investigation into the possible application of this drug as a promoter of wound healing. Since the late 1950s phenytoin has been used in a variety of clinical situations. However, its exact mechanism of action is still debated. The aim of this study was to determine the effect of DpH on wound healing in an incisional rat model. ⋯ DpH alters the natural course of wound healing and may be of benefit in clinical situations where defective wound collagen deposition may lead to poor wound healing and consequent morbidity and mortality.