The purpose of this experimental study is to investigate the improvement in flap survival of prearterialization with delay procedure in venous flaps in rats. The transverse superficial inferior epigastric flap was utilized. Forty-six rats were randomized into four groups: group 1 as arterialized venous flaps, group 2 as venous flaps of prearterialization with delay procedure, group 3 as arterial perfusion venous flap, and group 4 as venous perfusion venous flap. Direct observation, histological analysis, and vascular perfusion examination by Indian ink injection were performed for flap assessment. The percentage of flap survival was 41.6 +/- 2.4%, 98.0 +/- 1.8%, 89.5 +/- 1.0%, and 11.3 +/- 0.8% in these four groups, respectively. Significant differences were noted between groups ( P < 0.05) except for between group 2 and group 3 ( P > 0.05). Vascular perfusion studies revealed that the Indian ink filled the entire flaps of group 2 in comparison with partially filled flaps in other groups. Histological examination showed more small vessels were observed through all layers of the flaps as well as dilated superficial veins in group 2 than those in other groups. In conclusion, prearterialization with delay procedure can improve the viability of the flap, and this method may be a strategy for flap prefabrication based on the venous network.
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