International Journal of Drug Delivery Technology
Volume 16, Issue 2s

The Effect of Red Algae (Kappaphycus alvarezii) Extract Ointment on Vulnus Laceratum Wound Healing in Rattus norvegicus

Arrizqi Ramadhani Muchtar1*, Marjono Dwi Wibowo2, Asdi Wihandono3

1Department of Surgery, Faculty of Medicine, Airlangga University / dr. Soetomo Hospital, Surabaya, Indonesia
2Division of Head and Neck Surgery, Department of Surgery, Faculty of Medicine, Airlangga University / dr. Soetomo Hospital, Surabaya, Indonesia
3Division of Oncology Surgery, Department of Surgery, Faculty of Medicine, Airlangga University / dr. Soetomo Hospital, Surabaya, Indonesia

ABSTRACT

Background: Vulnus laceratum is a common traumatic wound that can lead to delayed healing and complications. Natural topical agents with anti-inflammatory and healing properties are being studied as alternatives to conventional wound treatments. Kappaphycus alvarezii, a red algae commonly grown in Indonesia, contains bioactive compounds that may improve the wound healing process.

Objective: This study aimed to analyze the effect of Kappaphycus alvarezii extract ointment on collagen density, polymorphonuclear leukocyte (PMN) infiltration, and epithelialization in vulnus laceratum wound.

Methods: This experimental in vivo study involved sixteen Rattus norvegicus randomly assigned to control or treatment groups. Standardized vulnus laceratum wounds were created on the dorsal skin. The treatment group received topical 5% Kappaphycus alvarezii extract gel, while controls received gel base. Histopathological evaluation was performed on day 6 using Masson's Trichrome and hematoxylin–eosin staining.

Results: Collagen density was significantly higher in the treatment group compared with the control group [Mean (SD): 45.84 (1.52)% vs 41.20 (1.05)%, p < 0.001]. PMN infiltration scores were significantly lower in the treatment group [Median (IQR): 2 (2–3) vs 3 (2–3), p = 0.015], indicating improved resolution of inflammation. Epithelialization scores were higher in the treatment group [Median (IQR): 1 (1–2) vs 1 (0–1)], although the difference was not statistically significant (p = 0.090).

Conclusion: Topical Kappaphycus alvarezii extract significantly enhances collagen deposition and reduces inflammatory cell infiltration in vulnus laceratum wounds in Wistar rats, while epithelialization shows a positive but non-significant trend.

Keywords: Kappaphycus alvarezii, vulnus laceratum, wound healing.

How to cite this article: Muchtar ARM, Wibowo MD, Wihandono A, The Effect of Red Algae (Kappaphycus alvarezii) Extract Ointment on Vulnus Laceratum Wound Healing in Rattus norvegicus. Int J Drug Deliv Technol. 2026;16(2s): 273-278; DOI: 10.25258/ijddt.16.273-278