The use of pentoxifylline in a pig random skin flap model

Pentoxifylline, the first drug in a new class of rheologic agents, has enhanced skin flap survival in previous rat models. In an attempt to find an animal model more similar to the human, a trial using a pig skin flap model was undertaken. Experimental animals received oral pentoxifylline for 21 days. Random skin flaps were elevated on the 14th day, and flap viability was determined on the 21st day. Similar flaps were raised on control animals. Serum fibrinogen levels, platelet aggregation studies, and erythrocyte flexibilities were measured in both groups. No improvement in flap viability or rheologic properties of the blood were shown in the pentoxifylline-treated animals. Although no enhancement of skin flap survival was demonstrated, future studies are warranted. Implications for future investigation and clinical application are discussed.