Effect of hirudin on random skin flap survival in rats / 中华整形外科杂志

<p><b>OBJECTIVE</b>To investigate the effect of Hirudin on random skin flap survival in rats.</p><p><b>METHODS</b>24 SD rats were randomly divided into control group and experimental group. The "McFarlane flap (3 cm x 9 cm)" rat models were established on the rat dorsum. 3 ml Hirudin (30 ATU) was injected into the flap in the experimental group, while 3 ml saline in the control group. The injection was performed for 7 days. The flap survival area in the two groups was measured. The tissue samples were taken from proximal (I), middle (II) and distal (III) portions of flaps for histologic study. The VEGF and bFGF expression was also detected with immunohistochemistry method.</p><p><b>RESULTS</b>7 days after operation, the flap survival rate was (69.52 +/- 3.23)% in the experimental group, while (50.36 +/- 2.37)% in control group, showing a significant difference between the two groups (P < 0. 01). In the middle portion, tissue edema and infiltration of neutrophils in experimental group was markedly slighter than that in control group. The VEGF and bFGF expression and neovascularization was enhanced markedly in experimental group.</p><p><b>CONCLUSIONS</b>Hirudin can increase the survival of random pattern skin flaps. It may increase the VEGF, bFGF expression through a series of complex regulatory pathway. Then flap neovascularization is promoted and the flap blood supply is increased.</p>

Application of dorsal pentagonal flap for reconstruction of the web space in congenital syndactyly / 中华整形外科杂志

<p><b>OBJECTIVE</b>To investigate the therapeutic effect of dorsal pentagonal flap for reconstruction of the web space in congenital syndactyly.</p><p><b>METHODS</b>From October 2007 to August 2009, 10 patients with congenital syndactyly were treated with dorsal pentagonal flap for web space reconstruction. During the follow-up period, the patients underwent finger functional assessment and web space appearance examination. The satisfactory rate of patients was also investigated.</p><p><b>RESULTS</b>10 patients with 17 reconstructed web spaces were followed up for 4-25 months (median, 15 months). Normal passive flexion and extension of fingers were achieved with good cosmetic result at web space. The abduction angle of fingers ranged from 30 degrees to 45 degrees. No web creep occurred and no secondary procedures were required. All the parents of the patients were satisfied with the results.</p><p><b>CONCLUSIONS</b>Web space reconstruction with dorsal pentagonal flap is easily performed with reliable blood supply and low re-operated rate. The cosmetic and functional result is satisfactory.</p>