The relationship between time of application of prostaglandin E1 and improved flap survival

Using 60 Hirosaki hairless rats, the relationship between the time of starting topical administration of Prostaglandin E1 using silicone gel and flap survival rate is described. Compared to control groups, beginning the administration of PGE1 at 0 (P < 0.01) and 3 h (P < 0.05) after flap elevation resulted in an increased flap survival area (Student's t-test). However, in groups in which PGE1 administration was begun at 6, 9 and 12 h after flap elevation, no statistically significant differences could be detected.