The effect of Hirudoid on random skin-flap survival in rats.
BACKGROUND
One of the main fields of research in flap surgery is to increase the viability of flaps. Many materials have been tested for this purpose. This study shows that topical application of Hirudoid, an organoheparinoid, increases flap survival of dorsal flaps in rats.


METHODS
Hirudoid was used topically every day in eight of 16 rats in which 10x3-cm dorsal flaps were prepared. The flaps were taken for analysis on the 10th day. Analysis of the flaps was performed using digital measurement and scintigraphy.


RESULTS
Analysis revealed that the flap necrosis area was smaller in the Hirudoid group compared to the control group. In addition, the area exhibiting radioactive uptake in scintigraphy was greater in the treatment group.


CONCLUSIONS
Topical administration of Hirudoid may significantly improve flap survival.
Livaoğlu
Murat
M
Department of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Karadeniz Technical University, Trabzon, Turkey. mliva@iname.com
Kerimoğlu
Servet
S
Sönmez
Bircan
B
Livaoğlu
Ayten
A
Karaçal
Naci
N
D000287:Administration, Topical; D000818:Animals; D062109:Dermatologic Surgical Procedures; D006085:Graft Survival / Q000187:drug effects*; D006496:Heparinoids / Q000008:administration & dosage / Q000494:pharmacology*; D008297:Male; D023421:Models, Animal; D009336:Necrosis / Q000209:etiology / Q000473:pathology / Q000517:prevention & control; D051381:Rats; D017208:Rats, Wistar; D012867:Skin / Q000187:drug effects* / Q000473:pathology; D013524:Surgical Flaps / Q000009:adverse effects / Q000473:pathology*; D013536:Suture Techniques; D014945:Wound Healing / Q000187:drug effects
D006496:Heparinoids; C046596:Hirudoid