The effect of Curcuma longa extract on fibroblast count and collagen density in intestinal anastomosis: an experimental study on New Zealand rabbits

Background: Anastomotic leakage was the most feared complication after intestinal surgery because it could bring morbidity and mortality. Curcuma longa (turmeric) has been known for its effect on wound healing by increasing fibroblast count and collagen density. Nevertheless, its effect on intestine anastomosis has not yet been proven. This study was an experimental study on New Zealand rabbits to analyze the effect of Curcuma longa extract on fibroblast count and collagen density in intestinal anastomosis. Methods: This study was a randomized control trial experimental study on a New Zealand white rabbit. The rabbits were divided into 2 groups randomly, the control group and the treatment group, which were given Curcuma longa extract for 4 days after laparotomy intestinal resection and anastomosis. Fibroblast count and collagen density of the anastomotic area were evaluated on the 5^th day after the surgery. Results: 36 New Zealand white rabbits underwent laparotomy intestinal resection and anastomosis, then randomly divided into 2 groups. On the 5^th day, the subjects were evaluated. The analysis results showed that the control group had a lower mean count of fibroblasts (9.89) than the treatment group (27.11), with the Mann-Whitney analysis showing significant differences (p-value 0.000). The lowest score for collagen density in the control group was +2, with the highest being +3. While on the treatment group, the lowest score was +3, and the highest was +4. The mean value was lower in the control group (10.61) rather than in the treatment group (26.39), with the Mann-Whitney analysis showing significant differences (p-value 0.000). Conclusion: Curcuma longa extract had an effect on intestinal anastomosis by increasing fibroblast count and collagen density.