[Experimental study on the relationship between the ratio of pedicle width to flap width and the surviving length of the random skin flap].

OBJECTIVE

To clarify the influence of the ratio of pedicle width to flap width of a random flap on flap survival length.

METHODS

42 skin flaps in seven groups were created in 6 pigs' torso with different ratio of pedicle width to flap width. The flaps were evaluated with fluorescence examination, blood flow ECT test, and computerized analysis of survival area.

RESULTS

The flap survival length of the seven groups was the same on the whole. The change in the ratio of pedicle width to flap width has nothing to do with flap survival length as long as the ratio is within the range of 1:1 to 1:4.

CONCLUSION

The random flap has a fixed survival length regardless of the width of the pedicle and the flap. The survival area of a random flap seems to approach a semicircle with a radius of the fixed survival length of the flap.