Accelerated maturation in prefabricated flaps by transforming growth factor-beta: an experimental study in the rabbit.
We evaluated whether application of transforming growth factor-beta (TGF-beta) during the first operation could shorten the interval required before creating a neo-vascularized flap in rabbits. Central ear vessels were transferred under the skin. After different time intervals, the flaps were raised as an island flap. In the group receiving TGF-beta, flap survival was 94% of initial length, whereas the control group reached 49% of initial length 3 days later. Five days later, flap survival was 98% in the TGF-beta group and the control group reached 78%. Histological examination revealed prominent angio-neogenesis surrounding implanted vessels in the rabbits receiving TGF-beta. This suggests that TGF-beta may accelerate flap maturation.
Iwasawa
M
M
Department of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Shinshu University School of Medicine, Matsumoto, Japan.
D000818:Animals; D001158:Arteries / Q000187:drug effects / Q000601:surgery; D003094:Collagen / Q000494:pharmacology; D009389:Neovascularization, Pathologic / Q000473:pathology; D011817:Rabbits; D011994:Recombinant Proteins / Q000494:pharmacology; D012867:Skin / Q000098:blood supply; D013524:Surgical Flaps / Q000473:pathology*; D016212:Transforming Growth Factor beta / Q000494:pharmacology*; D014945:Wound Healing / Q000187:drug effects*
D011994:Recombinant Proteins; D016212:Transforming Growth Factor beta; D003094:Collagen