A novel method for flap delay vacuum assisted flap delay: an experimental study in rabbits

Area of Science:

• Plastic Surgery
• Regenerative Medicine
• Tissue Engineering

Background:

• Flap necrosis is a significant complication in plastic surgery.
• Surgical delay is the standard method to prevent flap necrosis but requires two procedures.
• Minimally invasive techniques are sought to improve patient safety and reduce costs.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the efficacy of topical negative pressure (vacuum-assisted) as a flap delay method.
• To compare vacuum-assisted flap delay with traditional surgical delay and a control group.
• To assess the impact on flap survival, perfusion, and neovascularization.

Main Methods:

• A rabbit random flap model was used.
• Vacuum-assisted negative pressure was applied before flap elevation for delay induction.
• Comparison included surgical delay and a non-delayed control group.
• Flap survival, necrosis ratio, vascular density (CD31/CD34), Laser Doppler, and CT contrast uptake were analyzed.

Main Results:

• Vacuum-assisted flap delay demonstrated equivalent flap survival and perfusion compared to surgical delay.
• Both delay methods were significantly superior to the non-delayed control group.
• Flap necrosis rates were 65.56% (control), 37.31% (surgical delay), and 19.58% (vacuum-assisted delay).
• Vacuum-assisted flap delay eliminated the need for a second surgical procedure.

Conclusions:

• Vacuum-assisted flap delay is a promising alternative to surgical delay, offering comparable outcomes.
• This technique potentially enhances patient safety and reduces healthcare costs by omitting an additional surgery.
• Further research is needed to elucidate the mechanism of action and clinical significance.