LONG-TERM SURVIVAL OF FREE FAT GRAFTS IN MUSCLE - AN EXPERIMENTAL-STUDY IN RATS

In this study, we showed both macroscopically and microscopically the viability of the autotransplanted fat placed intramuscularly in long-t erm follow-up. The study was performed on 120 Wistar rats during a 12- month period. The fat grafts were obtained from either the inguinal re gion or preurinary bladder cavity. Rats were divided into six groups. In group 1, the fat was injected in thin rolls in the frontal subcutan eous layer. In group 2, the fat was injected in thin rolls in the glut eus superficialis, biceps femoris, gastrocnemius, and semitendinosus m uscles. In group 3, 6 mm x 2 mm fat strips were placed subcutaneously in the frontal region. In group 4, the same dimension of fat strips we re placed in the gluteus superficialis and biceps femoris muscles. In group 5, large cystic spaces of fat were injected subcutaneously in th e frontal region, and in group 6, large cystic spaces of fat were inje cted intramuscularly. Rats at 3, 6, 9, and 12 months after fat graftin g were sacrificed in order to carry out the macroscopic observations. The results showed clinical and microscopic success in groups 2 and 4, and problems and failure with the remaining groups.