Efficacy of Super Oxidized Solution Versus Povidone Iodine in the Management of Diabetic Foot Ulcers

Background: Diabetic foot ulcers (DFUs) are a major complication of diabetes mellitus, frequently leading to infection, prolonged hospitalization, and amputation. Despite widespread use, conventional antiseptics like povidone iodine may impede healing due to cytotoxicity. Super oxidized solution has emerged as a promising alternative with strong antimicrobial activity and tissue compatibility, yet comparative clinical data remain limited. Objective: To compare the efficacy of super oxidized solution versus povidone iodine in the management of diabetic foot ulcers, focusing on wound healing rate, time to complete healing, and infection control. Methods: This randomized controlled trial included 110 patients with diabetic foot ulcers (Wagner Grade I–III) treated at the Department of General Surgery, Qazi Hussain Ahmad Medical Complex, Nowshera. Patients were randomly assigned to receive either super oxidized solution or povidone iodine dressings alongside standard diabetic foot care. The primary outcome was wound healing rate; secondary outcomes included healing duration and infection control. Weekly assessments were conducted over 4–6 weeks. Ethical approval was obtained from the institutional review board, and informed consent was secured in accordance with the Declaration of Helsinki. Data were analyzed using SPSS version 25, with p < 0.05 considered statistically significant. Results: Patients treated with super oxidized solution exhibited significantly higher wound healing rates (85.5% vs. 38.2%), shorter mean healing time (3.71 ± 0.76 vs. 5.20 ± 0.87 weeks), and improved infection resolution (83.6% vs. 41.8%) compared to povidone iodine (p < 0.001 for all outcomes), demonstrating both statistical and clinical significance. Conclusion: Super oxidized solution is significantly more effective than povidone iodine in managing diabetic foot ulcers, offering superior healing rates, faster recovery, and better infection control. Its integration into wound care protocols may reduce complications and enhance patient outcomes in diabetic populations.