Effects of Topical Kiwifruit on Healing of Chronic Bedsore

Abstract

Kiwifruit (Actindia deliciosa) is demonstrated to have antibacterial and pro-angiogenic effect. Moreover, this fruit contains proteolytic enzymes (actinidin) and ascorbic acid. Considering these properties and based on the results of recent animal studies, we carried out this study to evaluate the effects of kiwifruit on bedsore in clinical settings. Forty patients with stage 2-3 sacral bedsores, preferably paraplegic, quadriplegic, and/or hemiplegic, were allocated into two groups of experiment and control. Under local anesthesia and sedation, ulcers of the experiment and control groups were dressed with pure extract of kiwifruit and normal saline, respectively, on a daily basis for 21 days. The ulcers were examined and photographed weekly. Pre- and postintervention biopsies were taken from the ulcers to perform microbiological and histological study. Mean reduction in surface area of bedsore in the experiment group was significantly higher than the control group (486.47 vs. 117.38 mm, p<0.001). The amount of collagen and granulation tissue were significantly higher in experiment groups than the control group (p value 0.005 and 0.02, respectively). Significantly higher levels of angiogenesis and vascularization were found in the kiwifruit-treated patients (p<0.02). In addition, obvious antibacterial effect was observed in the kiwifruit group. Natural compounds in the kiwifruit, including protein-dissolving enzymes (actinidin) and antibacterial agents, improve different aspects of the wound healing process. Based on its benefits and safety, we conclude that using kiwifruit is a simple, applicable, and effective way for treatment of bedsore.