THE FINITE-ELEMENT METHOD AS A RESEARCH AND TEACHING TOOL IN THE ANALYSIS OF LOCAL SKIN FLAPS

BACKGROUND. The finite element analysis (FEA) is a recently introduced method in biomechanics that permits modeling of complex structures co nsidering them as an aggregate of small elements. Skin flaps are highl y suggested to be amenable to the continuum mechanic laws that underly the development of FEA. OBJECTIVE. A combination of ''large deformati on analysis,'' based on FEA with the criteria for skin flap selection, was attempted. METHODS. Serial defects were experimentally created on piglet skin stripes, which were consequently covered through designin g appropriate flaps. Skin samples were modeled after the development o f a computer FEA program and they were scanned by incorporating their photographs. RESULTS AND CONCLUSION. On the graphic interfaces the fla p movement, the closure of the defect, and the whole deformation were found to match with the skin stripe postincisional alterations. This w ork permits the prediction and offers planning guides for different sk in reconstructions. (C) 1996 by the American Society for Dermatologic Surgery, Inc.