ABSTRACT
Objective To investigate the relationship between the pathological changes and the early anastomosis of the blood vessels in blast-wounded maxillofacial region. Methods A total of 20 dogs were regionally exploded in the left maxillofacial region by KTY-04 electric detonator. Specimens of blood vessels were removed at different distance from the edge of the wounded area at both right after (group A) and 72 h (group B ) after wounded and observed. Free skin flaps with saphenous artery were transplanted to the wounded areas. One week, 2 weeks and 3 months after anastomosis, specimens were taken from the site of anastomosis and observed. Results Falling off of most vascular endothelial cells and the disappearance of most internal elastic membrane of the artery were observed 3 cm from the wounded area in group A with 5 free flaps died. However in group B almost normal condition was seen at the same region. 12 from 15 flaps survived successfully. Conclusion The blood vessels begin to proliferate and repair 3 d after blast wound and this may provide the pathological basis for the possible success in the transplantation of the free flaps with blood vessels.