THE EFFECTS OF LIPO-PROSTAGLANDIN E(1) ON AXIAL PATTERN FLAPS IN RABBITS

The effects of lipo-prostaglandin E(1) (lipo-PGE(1)), lipid microspher es containing PGE(1), on axial pattern flaps were examined using 12 x 20 cm axial pattern flaps based on the right superficial inferior epig astric vessels on the abdomens of rabbits, The surviving area of the s kin flap in the lipo-PGE(1) group (197.0 +/- 14.1 cm(2); n = 10) was s ignificantly increased (p < 0.02) compared with the saline control gro up (110.4 +/- 5.5 cm(2); n = 10). Changes in pedicle blood flow after lipo-PGE(1) administration were determined using an ultrasonic pulsed Doppler flowmeter (n = 5). Blood flow in the artery was increased imme diately after administration, and it was maintained for 40 minutes, Th e surface blood flow at the caudal end of the flap on the nonpedicle s ide, where it was poor, was measured using laserflowgraphy. Blood flow in the skin flap surface was improved 5 to 15 minutes after lipo-PGE( 1) administration, and it was maintained for as long as 60 minutes, Ve nous occlusion of the skin flap was also improved (n = 3). In conclusi on, lipo-PGE(1) increased the blood flow in the axial pattern flaps, r esulting in significant enlargement of the surviving skin flap area.