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Published on: July 14, 2020
Comparison of the High-Voltage Electrical Stimulation and Fixed Diphasic Current in Viability of the Transverse
Lais Mara Siqueira das Neves1, Rinaldo Roberto de Jesus Guirro1, Carlos Eduardo Pinfildi2
1Post-Graduate Program in Rehabilitation and Functional, Performance, Ribeirão Preto Medical School, University of São Paulo, Ribeirão Preto, SP, Brazil.
Background:
Nicotine compromises tissue perfusion and may reduce the viability of surgical flaps. Electrical stimulation has been investigated as a therapeutic strategy to improve tissue repair and flap survival.
Objective:
The aim of the study was to evaluate and compare the effect of high-voltage electrical stimulation and fixed diphasic current on the viability of the transverse rectus abdominis musculocutaneous flap in rats subjected to the action of nicotine METHODS: Thirty-six albino Wistar rats were divided into six groups: Saline Group = received saline solution; High-Voltage Electrical Stimulation Group = received saline solution and electrical stimulation with high-voltage current; Fixed Diphasic Current Group = received saline solution and electrical stimulation with fixed diphasic current; Nicotine Group = received nicotine; Nicotine + High-Voltage Electrical Stimulation Group = received nicotine and electrical stimulation with high-voltage current; Nicotine + Fixed Diphasic Current Group = received nicotine and electrical stimulation with fixed diphasic current. The application of high-voltage electrical stimulation or fixed diphasic current occurred immediately after surgery and during the subsequent two days. All groups were submitted to transverse rectus abdominis musculocutaneous flap surgery. The percentage of necrosis was assessed using AxioVision® software. The number of mast cells was evaluated by toluidine blue staining, and vascular endothelial growth factor, fibroblast growth factor, and neoformed vessels were assessed by immunohistochemistry.
Results:
The two electric currents were effective in increasing the viability of the transverse rectus abdominis musculocutaneous flap of rats submitted to nicotine. The fixed diphasic current showed better results, with decreased area of necrosis, increased number of mast cells, and increased number of fibroblast growth factor CONCLUSIONS: Both electrical stimulation protocols improved flap viability in rats exposed to nicotine, with fixed diphasic current demonstrating superior effects.
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