Objective: To observe the effect and mechanism of Sixiaosan on wound tissue healing of diabetic foot ulcer in rats. Method: SPF SD rats were randomly divided into 4 groups: blank group (normal rats)

model control group

metronidazole group (5 mL · kg-1 · d-1) and Sixiaosan group (100 mg · kg-1 · d-1). Metronidazole injection was applied in metronidazole group for external use

Sixiaosan was provided to Sixiaosan group for external use. At 14 d after treatment

serum epidermal growth factor (EGF) and basic fibroblast growth factor (bFGF) were detected. Immunohistochemistry was used to detect the numbers of fiber cells and newborn blood capillaries in wound granulation tissues; hematoxylin-eosin (HE) staining was used to observe histomorphological changes. Result: In metronidazole and Sixiaosan groups

bFGF and EGF in serum of rats were significantly increased (P<0.01). Specifically

bFGF and EGF in Sixiaosan group increased higher than those of metronidazole groups (P<0.01). In metronidazole and Sixiaosan groups

the number and density of newborn blood capillaries and the number of fibroblasts were significantly increased (P<0.05). In Sixiaosan group

the number and density of newborn blood capillaries and the number of fibroblasts increased higher than those of metronidazole groups (P<0.05). Conclusion: Sixiaosan is able to improve the levels of bFGF and EGF in serum of rats

and conducive to the proliferation of fibroblasts and newborn blood capillaries

and the growth of wound granulation tissues

so as to promote the healing of diabetic foot ulcer.