Effects of Morroniside on the Viability of Random Skin Flaps in Rats

Objective: The purpose of our experiment was to determine whether morroniside can improve the survival of ischemic skin flaps in rats. Methodology: A total of 40 male Sprague-Dawley rats were randomly divided into two groups (control group and treatment group). Modified McFarlane flaps were performed (causally based, 9 cm × 3 cm). The percentage of survival of each flap was calculated. Flap blood flows were measured by Laser-Doppler flowmeter. Flap vasculature was assessed by angiography after Lead oxide-gelatin injection. Vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) was evaluated by immunochemistry. Superoxide Dismutase (SOD) level and malondiadehyde (MDA) content were determined using assay kits. Results: At the seventh postoperative day, the morroniside-treated rats showed a higher percentage of flap survival than the control rats. Flap perfusion and the level of vascular endothelial growth factor were significantly elevated in the morroniside-treated group. In the treatment group, the distal section of the flap was nearly saturated with contrast agent, while in the control group, the contrast agent perfused only half of the flap. In the treatment group, morroniside administration significantly increased SOD level and reduced MDA content. Conclusion: Morroniside can enhance ischemic flap survival.