Sensory Denervation Delays Burn Wound Healing in Experimental Second- and Third-Degree Burns: A Histopathological Rat...

Background: Burn wound healing is a complex biological process requiring coordinated interactions among inflammatory cells, keratinocytes, fibroblasts, endothelial cells, extracellular matrix components, and neural structures. Increasing evidence suggests that sensory nerves actively regulate tissue repair through modulation of inflammation, angiogenesis, epithelial regeneration, and tissue remodeling. However, the role of sensory innervation in burn wound healing remains incompletely understood. The aim of this study was to investigate the effects of sensory denervation on healing of experimental second- and third-degree burns in rats. Methods: Thirty-two adult male Wistar albino rats were randomly allocated into four groups: denervated second-degree burns (Group 1), denervated third-degree burns (Group 2), innervated second-degree burns (Group 3), and innervated third-degree burns (Group 4). Bilateral T5-T7 sensory denervation was performed microsurgically in denervated groups. Standardized contact burns were subsequently created. Histopathological assessment of inflammation, neovascularization, epithelialization, fibroblast proliferation, and collagen deposition was performed on postoperative days 3, 7, 14, and 21. Results: Sensory denervation adversely affected multiple parameters of burn wound healing. Delayed epithelialization, impaired fibroblast proliferation, and reduced collagen deposition were most pronounced in denervated third-degree burns. Significant differences were identified between denervated and innervated wounds, particularly during proliferative and remodeling phases of healing. Conclusions: Sensory denervation significantly delays burn wound healing, particularly following third-degree thermal injury. Intact sensory innervation appears essential for successful epithelial regeneration, fibroblast activation, and extracellular matrix remodeling.