A topical naltrexone formulation for surgical wound healing: A case report

Abstract

Background: In current guidelines, there is no specific therapeutic recommendation for promoting surgical wound healing. Proper postsurgical wound care regimen can speed up wound healing and prevent abnormal scarring. Aims: The purpose of this case study was to evaluate the effectiveness of a compounded topical formulation containing naltrexone in managing surgical wound in a patient after Mohs micrographic surgery (MMS). Patients/Methods: A patient started to apply the topical naltrexone formulation two days after the MMS on his hand. Images of the wound and a Patient Scar Assessment Questionnaire (PSAQ) were used to evaluate the clinical outcomes. Results: The wound completely healed, and the hand function was fully recovered following application of the formulation for 2 weeks. No abnormal scarring was formed, and the scar was only slightly noticeable after 2 months. Conclusion: This case study demonstrated the effectiveness of the topical naltrexone formulation in surgical wound management.