A refined experimental model for local, interpolated flap, and free tissue transfer studies using musculus cutaneus maximus-based musculocutaneous flap in the rat.

[PURPOSE] Adequate microcirculation is essential for regeneration and survival of flaps. The perfusion pattern can be influenced by the vascular pedicle's properties in various flap types. We aimed to describe a refined musculocutaneous flap model with viability measurements, studying local, interpolated and transferred (free) flap types in rats.

[METHODS] Wistar rats were subjected to three experimental groups (n = 8/each). Beside controls, in two groups cutaneous maximus musculocutaneous flaps were prepared bilaterally. The right flaps were sutured back (local flap), the left one was transposed to the frontal chest wall (interpolated flap). In another group, left flap was transferred to the inguinal region performing microvascular anastomoses. Flaps' temperature, blood flow, and microcirculation were assessed before/after operation and on the 14th postoperative day.

[RESULTS] The flaps' temperature didn't worsen, but values moderately decreased in transferred flaps. The pedicle's blood flow didn't change significantly after preparation. The transferred flaps' values lowered by the 14th day. Microcirculatory parameters decreased postoperatively, significantly in interpolated and transferred flaps, and completely normalized by the 14th day.

[CONCLUSION] Tissue perfusion and microcirculatory pattern were sufficient for flap survival and wound healing. The refined cutaneous maximus musculocutaneous flap model can be useful in studies comparing local, interpolated and transferred flaps.