Effects of Lipo-Prostaglandin E₁ on Random Pattern Laps in Rabbits

Abstract

The effects of lipo-prostaglandin (PG) E₁, which are lipid microspheres containing PGE₁, were examined using 2 × 12 cm random pattern skin flaps on the backs of five rabbits. Five rabbits acted as controls. Both surviving length (8.5 (3.1) compared with 4.9 (1.8) cm) and surviving area (22.1 (9.3) compared with 11.5 (6.1) cm²) of the skin flap were significantly increased (p < 0.03 in each case). In three additional rabbits the blood flow on the distal side of the skin flap, where it was poor, was measured using a laser image blood flowmeter. Blood flow was improved five to 15 minutes after injection of lipò-PGE₁ and was maintained for at least 60 minutes. In conclusion, lipo-PGE₁ increased the blood flow of the random skin flaps, resulting in significant enlargement of the surviving area of skin flaps.

Key Words:

• prostaglandin E₁
• flap
• random pattern