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The effects of basic fibroblast growth factor on postoperative mastoid cavity problems
Akinobu Kakigi1, Shoichi Sawada, Taizo Takeda
1Department of Otolaryngology, Kochi Medical School, Nankoku, Kochi, Japan. kakigia@med.kochi-u.ac.jp
Summary
Basic fibroblast growth factor (bFGF) effectively treats chronic ear cavities. This growth factor promotes healing by stimulating skin cell and blood vessel growth, resolving long-standing discharge issues.
Area of Science:
- Regenerative Medicine
- Otolaryngology
- Wound Healing
Background:
- Intractable ear cavity problems, characterized by chronic discharge, pose significant clinical challenges.
- Existing treatments often fail to resolve persistent infections and tissue defects.
Observation:
- Three patients with chronic ear discharge (7, 10, and 30 years) were treated with a topical basic fibroblast growth factor (bFGF) solution.
- The treatment involved daily application of 100 microg/ml trafermin (recombinant bFGF) into the affected cavities.
- Adjunctive topical antibiotics/antifungals were used for documented infections.
Findings:
- Complete epithelialization and resolution of chronic discharge were observed in all three cases within two months.
- Basic fibroblast growth factor (bFGF) demonstrated significant efficacy in promoting wound closure and tissue regeneration.
- The treatment accelerated the healing process in previously intractable ear cavities.
Implications:
- Basic fibroblast growth factor (bFGF) shows promise as a therapeutic agent for complex otological wound healing.
- bFGF may stimulate keratinocyte, fibroblast, and endothelial cell proliferation and differentiation, facilitating tissue repair.
- This approach offers a potential new strategy for managing chronic ear discharge and associated cavity problems.