Evaluation of the efficacy of ozone-enriched water in the healing of surgical wounds in dogs

Abstract

Introduction: Postoperative wound healing in dogs, crucial for recovery and complication prevention, has prompted exploration of innovative therapies like ozone. While human studies support its positive effects, applying ozone in dogs demands a deeper analysis due to physiological differences. This study in Guaranda assesses ozone-enriched water's impact on surgical wounds in dogs, aiming to enhance postoperative protocols and strengthen veterinary practice with scientific evidence in an underexplored area for the benefit of animal health. Objective: Evaluate the efficacy of ozone-enriched water in the healing of surgical wounds in male and female dogs in the Canton of Guaranda, Bolivar Province, at the Veterinary Clinic "de Pelos J.E" and Pet Shop. Methodology: This study employed a descriptive experimental design conducted at the Veterinary Clinic "de Pelos J.E" and Pet Shop in Guaranda during August and September 2023. Forty canine patients were randomly assigned to two groups: one treated with ozonated water and another control group without treatment. The population included 15 females and 15 males undergoing ovariohysterectomy and orchiectomy, excluding pre-existing medical conditions or a history of adverse reactions to ozone. Surgical procedures followed veterinary standards, with anesthetic protocol and pain evaluation using the Glasgow Pain Scale. Tissue samples were collected on the third and seventh days for histopathological analysis. Results: The results indicate that the group treated with ozonated water shows a significant presence of fibrous connective tissue (FCT), with 33.3% (10/30) exhibiting an abundant amount and 66.7% (20/10) with a moderate presence. In the control group, we observed a moderate presence of FCT in the majority (90%, 9/10). Statistical data reveal a marked difference (P < 0.05) on the seventh day, where the treated group exhibits 76.7% (23/30) with moderate neovascularization and 13.3% (4/30) with an abundant presence. In comparison, the control group shows 60% (6/10) with mild neovascularization and 40% (4/10) with moderate neovascularization. Regarding inflammation, 26.7% (8/30) of the treated group shows absence, and 73.3% (22/30) shows mild inflammation. In contrast, all patients in the control group exhibit mild inflammation. As for healing, 70% (21/30) of the treated group shows comprehensive healing at 6 days, 30% (9/30) at 5 days, while the control group achieves adequate healing by the 8th day in 100% of cases. Conclusion: The use of ozone-enriched water significantly accelerated the healing process, enhancing the organization of collagen and other tissue components compared to the control group. Additionally, there was an effective reduction in inflammation in surgical wounds, indicating a decrease in the inflammatory response in the surrounding tissue. These results suggest a positive and potentially beneficial impact of ozonized water on the speed of recovery.