Objective:

To review the published literature on the use, efficacy, and safety of sevoflurane in order to determine the benefits and limitations this drug offers in the treatment of skin ulcers, patient safety, and occupational risks.

Methodology:

Exploratory systematic review using a PICO question framework. 5 health science databases were consulted (PubMed, EMBASE, CINAHL, Scopus, and Web of Science). The PRISMA flowchart phases were followed, and the systematic review criteria from the Joanna Briggs Institute manual were applied.

Results:

A total of 27 articles with heterogeneous characteristics regarding the type of lesions and clinical applications were reviewed. A local analgesic effect was observed in vascular ulcers of the lower extremities, pressure ulcers, and tumoral ulcers using protocols of 1 ml/cm². No in vivo biocidal effect was observed in the reviewed studies. There are indications of a healing-promoting effect, but the level of evidence is insufficient. Regarding safety, transient mild adverse local effects such as pruritus, erythema, and warmth in the lesion area were documented, as well as a potential occupational risk associated with applying topical sevoflurane to wounds.

Conclusions:

There is no strong evidence-based recommendation supporting the efficacy and safety of topical sevoflurane due to the low quality of the published studies. Its use should be limited and based on the premise of “compassionate use.” Experimental lines exploring new sevoflurane pharmaceutical formulations in gel and microsphere formats appear promising for routine use in the future.

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