Experimental model of ischemia-reperfusion injury (I/R) to a free muscle flap of the musculus latissimus dorsi (MLD) in domestic swine
Abstract
Introduction: Free muscle flap transfers, frequently used in plastic and reconstructive surgery, are associated with alternating episodes of ischemia and reperfusion, a condition called ischemic-reperfusion injury (I/R). This phenomenon could be a cause of damage in the transferred flap.
Major detrimental effects are usually attributed to the oxidative stress. Aim: The aim of this study was therefore 1) to develop a clinically relevant experimental model of free muscle flap for musculus latissimus dorsi (MLD), 2) to elaborate a technique allowing, by means of routine laboratory methods, the detection of changes occurring as a result of oxidative stress, and 3) to evaluate the impact of ischemia and subsequent reperfusion on free flap muscle tissue (in terms of oxidative stress).