[A microcirculation observation of the venous flaps]

Area of Science:

• Surgical research
• Vascular surgery
• Microcirculation studies

Context:

• Island venous flaps are utilized in reconstructive surgery.
• Understanding microcirculation is vital for flap survival.
• Rabbit ear models are commonly used for surgical research.

Purpose:

• To evaluate the impact of different vessel pedicle management strategies on island venous flap survival and microcirculation.
• To compare the survival rates and blood flow dynamics across various flap preparation techniques.

Summary:

• This study observed 84 island venous flaps in 42 rabbits, analyzing survival rates based on vessel pedicle handling.
• Flaps maintaining both artery and venous supply showed the highest survival (90.36%), followed by those preserving distal and proximal veins (86.29%).
• Survival rates decreased significantly when only proximal (75.71%) or distal (28.75%) veins were maintained, with complete vessel ligation resulting in zero survival.
• Laser Doppler and microcirculation microscopy confirmed reduced blood flow and micrangium density in flaps with compromised venous drainage, particularly in the distal-vein-only group.

Impact:

• The findings underscore the critical role of adequate venous outflow in conjunction with arterial inflow for successful island venous flap viability.
• This research provides evidence-based recommendations for surgical techniques aimed at optimizing flap survival in reconstructive procedures.
• The study highlights the detrimental effects of isolated venous preservation on flap perfusion and tissue health.