MODE OF VASCULARIZATION OF CONTROL AND BASIC FIBROBLAST GROWTH FACTOR-STIMULATED PREFABRICATED SKIN FLAPS

This study, using 62 rabbits, examines the rate and pattern of vascula r outgrowth from a subcutaneously implanted vascular pedicle, how the newly formed vessels connect to preexisting skin vessels, and whether local application of basic fibroblast growth factor can accelerate til e angiogenic process. When the femoral artery and vein of rabbits are implanted beneath the skin, angiogenesis from both tile pedicle and sm all blood vessels within the adjacent skin begins within 3 days. Perfu sion with India ink reveals connections between the pedicle and dermal vessels as early as 5 days after implantation of the pedicle. Provide d the pedicle does not thrombose, skin flaps based on it may survive c ompletely when elevated as early as 2 weeks after implantation. Flap s urvival depends on the development of a small number of vascular conne ctions between vessels arising from the pedicle and preexisting dermal vessels. If elevation is delayed until 4 weeks after implantation a f lap may survive even if its pedicle has thrombosed. Prolonged release of basic fibroblast growth factor adjacent to the pedicle significantl y increases the survival of flaps elevated 1 week after implantation b ut does not alter the survival of flaps elevated at 2 and 4 weeks.