Neovascularized Free Fat Flaps: An Experimental Model

ABSTRACT

Using the concepts of neovascularization and microsurgical free transfer, two types of free fat flaps were developed in a rat model. The technique for construction of the flap was to use either a free fat graft or a pedicle fat flap that were then wrapped around a predetermined vascular bundle, subsequently to neovascularize the enveloping fat tissue. Once adequate neovascularization occurred, these flat flaps could then be harvested on a neopedicle consisting of the enveloped artery and vein. These preparations were later examined for viability, and then freely transferred to the contralateral femoral vessels. After transfer, the flaps were again examined for viability and prepared for histologic examination. Both of these studies revealed that successful neovascularized free fat flaps could be created, employing techniques of neovascularization, and that those created using a pedicle fat flap in the initial stage reliably succeeded in neovascularization and free transfer, in contrast with the less successful free fat graft technique.