Background and purpose: Seroma formation is a common complication after inguinal surgery and lymphadenectomy. Phenytoin as an antiepileptic medication has also antimicrobial effects that can accelerate wound healing and reduce pain. The aim of this study was to evaluate the role of phenytoin in prevention of seroma formation following inguinal lymphadenectomy.

Materials and methods: In this experimental study, 30 Wistar rats were divided into two groups. After inguinal lymphadenectomy the intervention group received topical phenytoin 1% and sterile normal saline 0.9%, while the control group received only normal saline. Ten days after surgery, the incidence and volume of seroma were determined and tissue samples were sent for histopathological examination. Data analysis was done in SPSS V.20 using Chi-square and Independent T-test.

Results: The results showed that edema (P=0.050) and congestion (P=0.001) were considerably lower in phenytoin group while fibrosis was significantly higher in this group (P=0.017). The mean volume of aspirated seroma in intervention group and controls was 0.73±0.24 and 1.31±0.27 ml, respectively (P=0.014).  

Conclusion: Phenytoin can reduce edema and congestion in wound region and also leads to faster healing by increasing fibrosis. The topical application of phenytoin causes direct access of the medication to the target site and prevents the risk of systemic side effects.