Publication | Closed Access
Basic Fibroblast Growth Factor Has a Beneficial Effect on the Viability of Random Skin Flaps in Rats
50
Citations
0
References
1994
Year
Tissue EngineeringSurgeryDermatologySkin RegenerationRandom Skin FlapsRegenerative MedicineSoft Tissue SurgeryFibroblast Growth FactorMatrix BiologyFibrosisBeneficial EffectSaline Control GroupCell BiologyFibroblast BiologySkin FlapsDevelopmental BiologyReconstructive SurgeryWound HealingSoft Tissue ReconstructionMedicinePlastic SurgeryExtracellular Matrix
We investigated the effect of exogenous basic fibroblast growth factor (bFGF) on the viability of random skin flaps in rats. Thirty-six rats were divided into three groups of 12 animals: a saline control group and two bFGF-treated groups. Caudally based random skin flaps were raised on the backs of the rats. In the control group, saline was instilled under the flap after skin closure. Twelve other rats were treated with bFGF (20 micrograms) just after skin closure. The remaining 12 rats were treated twice with bFGF (20 micrograms), both just after the operation and 48 hours later. There was a significant improvement in viability in the bFGF-treated groups on postoperative day 7 compared with the control group. Total adenine nucleotide levels in the flaps on postoperative day 10 were significantly higher in the group receiving two doses of bFGF than in the other groups. Thus, bFGF can improve the viability of endangered skin flaps.