The ventral 'L' island flap. A refined model for skin flap research

The rat has long been used as an experimental model for obtaining preliminary data in skin flap research. Unfortunately, there has been a great deal of inconsistency both in the experimental design of the skin flaps used in this animal model and in their inherent survival pattern. We have developed a ventral "L" flap based on clear anatomic landmarks that offers a number of advantages over previously described rat skin flaps including a more consistent survival pattern. This flap was elevated in 23 rats, resulting in an average necrosis of 16.7% +/- 7.6% 7 days postoperatively. Our article outlines the details of this flap's design and its use. The ventral L flap offers a refined tool for skin flap research in the rat animal model.