The influence of biosynthetic human growth hormone (b-hGH) on the mechanical strength development of skin incisional wounds in diabetic rats has been investigated after 4, 7 and 21 days of healing. Diabetes caused decreased mechanical strength of the wounds. After 21 days of healing, the diabetic animals treated with b-hGH from 7 days before wound infliction had an increased maximum load (14%) compared with the untreated diabetic animals. After 4 and 7 days of healing, no differences in the bîomechanical strength of diabetic wounds with and without b-hGH treatment were found. The diabetic animals receiving b-hGH showed a significant increase in body weight compared with the untreated diabetic animals. In the diabetic animals, the blood glucose concentration was increased by treatment with b-hGH. In conclusion, treatment with b-hGH from 7 days before operation can counteract the reduced mechanical strength of skin wounds in diabetic rats on day 21