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Innervated Free Gracilis Muscle Transfer: An Experimental Model
Mansher Singh1, Hehuan Li, E J Caterson
1*The Division of Plastic Surgery, Department of Surgery, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA †Department of Plastic Surgery, The First Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, China.
The Journal of Craniofacial Surgery
|July 9, 2016
Summary
This study introduces a rabbit model for microsurgical tissue transfer and nerve regeneration. The rabbit model offers a viable and cost-effective alternative to rodent models for translational research.
Area of Science:
- Microsurgery
- Regenerative Medicine
- Translational Research
Background:
- Rodent models are limited for microsurgical research due to size and anatomical differences.
- Challenges exist in extrapolating rodent surgical model findings to humans.
Purpose of the Study:
- To present a rabbit model for studying free tissue transfer and nerve regeneration.
- To establish a standard investigative method for translational endeavors.
Main Methods:
- Utilized an innervated free gracilis muscle flap in rabbits.
- Performed 12 free tissue transfers with nerve coaptation.
Main Results:
- Achieved successful flap viability in all procedures over a 9-month follow-up.
- Observed return of muscle function by 12 weeks, with complete recovery by 20 weeks.
- Managed 2 cases of surgical site infections with standard treatment.
Conclusions:
- Rabbits provide a small, accessible, cost-effective, and easily handled experimental model.
- The innervated gracilis muscle free flap in rabbits is an excellent model for free tissue transfer and reinnervation studies.
