Novel Irradiated Axial Rotational Flap Model in the Rodent

Authors

Adam J. Luginbuhl, Thomas Jefferson UniversityFollow
Mara Modest, BS, Thomas Jefferson University
Kaiguo Yan, Thomas Jefferson UniversityFollow
Joseph Curry, Thomas Jefferson UniversityFollow
Ryan N. Heffelfinger, Thomas Jefferson UniversityFollow

Document Type

Article

Publication Date

8-2011

Comments

This article has been peer reviewed. It is the authors' final version prior to publication in Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery

Volume 145, Issue 2, suppl P49, August 2011

The published version is available at DOI: 10.1177/0194599811416318a27. Copyright © Sage

Abstract

Abstract

Objectives: To design an easily reproducible rodent rotational skin flap and to evaluate the effects of radiation on flap viability.

Methods: Ten rats received 40 Gy irradiation to the abdominal wall. Following a recovery period of one month, a 3 X 8 cm fasciocutaneous flap based axially on the inferior epigastric vessel, was raised and rotated 60 degrees into a contralateral deficit. Five non-irradiated rats underwent the identical procedure as a control. Animals were sacrificed seven days postoperatively, areas of flap necrosis were documented, and histological specimens were taken to compare flap viability and vessel density.

Results: 60% of the rats in the irradiated group had necrosis of the distal flap ranging from 1 to 6 cm from the distal edge, whereas none of the animals (0%) in the control group exhibited necrosis (p<0.001). Histology revealed collagen and vascular changes in the irradiated skin. Vascular density analysis revealed a significant difference between radiated and non-radiated flaps; p = 0.004, 0.029 and 0.014 in the distal, middle and proximal segments of the flap respectively.

Conclusion: This novel rat axial rotational flap model demonstrates increases flap necrosis and a decrease in vascular density due to the effects of radiation. Using a linear electron accelerator a dose of 40 gy can be delivered to the skin without resulting in devastating gastrointestinal side effects.

Recommended Citation

Luginbuhl, Adam J.; Modest, BS, Mara; Yan, Kaiguo; Curry, Joseph; and Heffelfinger, Ryan N., "Novel Irradiated Axial Rotational Flap Model in the Rodent" (2011). Department of Otolaryngology - Head and Neck Surgery Faculty Papers. Paper 21.
https://jdc.jefferson.edu/otofp/21