Tissue expansion and cutaneous blood flow.
The effect of controlled skin expansion in blood flow was investigated using the dermofluorometer. Twenty-eight subcutaneous pockets in seven pigs were divided into three groups. Group 1: subcutaneous pockets with a gradually inflated 200-cc tissue expander over 12 days, then deflated and observed for 6 days. Group 2: subcutaneous pockets with a noninflated 200-cc tissue expander. Group 3: subcutaneous pockets elevated without placement of a tissue expander. Measurements taken 30 to 45 minutes after partial inflation of the tissue expander showed a decrease in blood flow while blood flow was increased 30 to 45 minutes after deflation of the tissue expander. The increase in blood flow, however, was not evident 6 days after the expander in group 1 was deflated.
Goding
G S
GS
Department of Otolaryngology, University of Washington, Seattle.
Cummings
C W
CW
Trachy
R E
RE
D000818:Animals; D062109:Dermatologic Surgical Procedures; D019793:Fluorescein; D005452:Fluoresceins; D019736:Prostheses and Implants; D012039:Regional Blood Flow; D012867:Skin / Q000098:blood supply*; D013524:Surgical Flaps; D013552:Swine
D005452:Fluoresceins; D019793:Fluorescein