Microcirculation study of rabbit ear arterial and venous flow-through flaps using a window chamber model

Area of Science:

• Plastic Surgery
• Microsurgery
• Vascular Biology

Background:

• Venous flaps are preferred for finger reconstruction due to thin tissue and minimal donor-site morbidity.
• Concerns exist regarding venous flap viability and microcirculation compared to arterial flaps.

Purpose of the Study:

• To compare the viability, circulation, and microcirculation of arterial and venous flow-through flaps in a rabbit ear model.
• To investigate the flow dynamics and clinical behavior of these flap types.

Main Methods:

• Utilized a rabbit ear window chamber model to study arterial and venous flow-through flaps.
• Assessed flap viability, weight, circulation (laser Doppler flowmetry), and direct microcirculation observation.
• Performed statistical analysis using the two-sample t test.

Main Results:

• No significant difference in flap viability was found between arterial and venous flaps (p = 0.661).
• Arterial flaps showed higher perfusion (10.40 PU vs. 4.50 PU), though not statistically significant (p = 0.0717).
• Significant differences were observed in flap weight and immediate postoperative oxygen saturation, suggesting congestion in arterial flaps.

Conclusions:

• Both arterial and venous flow-through flaps exhibit comparable viability for reconstructive purposes.
• Complex microcirculatory phenomena, including flow reversal, were observed in both flap types.
• Arterial flaps may experience increased congestion due to altered flow patterns and potentially superior inflow.