LOCALIZED IN-VIVO P-31 NMR-SPECTROSCOPY OF SKIN FLAP METABOLISM

We have used a rectangular surface coil and chemical shift imaging to conduct in vivo localized P-31 NMR metabolic studies in a rat dorsal s kin flap model. This approach permits regional comparisons without man ipulation of either coil position or subject within the magnet bore. B oth the PCr:P-i ratio (reflecting ischemia insult) and the PCr:ATP rat io (reflecting phosphagen reserves) decreased as functions of time and distance from the vascular pedicle. The maximum change was nearly 6-f old for the PCr:P-i ratio, and 3-fold for the PCr:ATP ratio. Signal co ntamination from subjacent muscle is constant and does not interfere w ith the metabolic evaluations of skin flaps. This technique may facili tate a better understanding of cutaneous metabolic derangements, such as burns and skin flaps used in reconstructive surgery, as well as stu dies of pharmacologic regimens developed for their treatment. It also holds potential for application in the study of congenital and neoplas tic metabolic disorders of skin.