Evaluating revascularization and flap survival using vascular endothelial growth factor in an irradiated rat model.

Objective: To evaluate the role of vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) plasmid DNA (pDNA) in improving flap revascularization in a previously developed rat model. Our hypothesis was that the uptake and expression of VEGF pDNA in the wound bed would improve revascularization and flap viability.

Design: Twenty-eight male Sprague-Dawley rats received a total dose of 40 Gy electron beam radiation to the ventral abdominal wall.

Development of an irradiated rodent model to study flap revascularization.

Objective: To develop a reproducible free-flap animal model to study the effects of irradiation on flap revascularization.

Design: After institutional animal care and use committee review and approval, 16 Sprague-Dawley rats were subjected to either 23- or 40-Gy electron beam irradiation to their ventral abdominal wall. After a recovery period, the animals then underwent a ventral fasciocutaneous flap pedicled on the inferior epigastric vessels with subsequent pedicle ligation at 10 days.