The Blood Flow in Experimental Skin Flaps in Rats Studied by Means of the ¹³³Xenon Clearance Method

Abstract

The blood flow in skin flaps in rats was studied by ¹³³Xe. Clearance values for two or three parts of the flaps were expressed in per cent of control values for the nonoperated side. Standard-sized skin flaps of different types—double-pedicled, single-pedicled and step-wise formed—were used, and the circulatory variations were studied during the healing period. The blood flow in one of the bases of a double-pedicled flap appeared enhanced during the first postoperative week—possibly owing to a loss of the sympathetic tone due to denervation of the vessels. By cutting the base of a single-pedicled flap at various postoperative intervals the reestablishment of the blood flow over the scar was demonstrated. This was concluded to be the main factor causing postoperative recovery of blood flow. The increase in flow appeared more rapid if the base was divided at an early stage. This observation supports the view that hypoxia stimulates revascularization. A step-wise formation of the flap did not lead to a better flow or to a more rapid reestablishment of the vascular connections.