The gracilis myocutaneous free flap in swine: an advantageous preclinical model for vascularized composite allograft transplantation research

Leto Barone, A. A., Leonard, D. A. , Torabi, R., Mallard, C., Glor, T., Scalea, J. R., Randolph, M. A., Sachs, D. H. and Cetrulo, C. L. (2013) The gracilis myocutaneous free flap in swine: an advantageous preclinical model for vascularized composite allograft transplantation research. Microsurgery, 33(1), pp. 51-55. (doi: 10.1002/micr.21997) (PMID:22707437)

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Abstract

Vascularized composite allotransplantation (VCA) has become a clinical reality, prompting research aimed at improving the risk‐benefit ratio of such transplants. Here, we report our experience with a gracilis myocutaneous free flap in Massachusetts General Hospital miniature swine as a preclinical VCA model. Fourteen animals underwent free transfer of a gracilis myocutaneous flap comprised of the gracilis muscle and overlying skin, each tissue supplied by independent branches of the femoral vessels. End‐to‐end anastomoses were performed to the common carotid artery and internal jugular vein, or to the femoral vessels of the recipients. Thirteen of fourteen flaps were successful. A single flap was lost due to compromise of venous outflow. This model allows transplantation of a substantial volume of skin, subcutaneous tissue, and muscle. The anatomy is reliable and easily identified and harvest incurs minimal donor morbidity. We find this gracilis myocutaneous flap an excellent pre‐clinical model for the study of vascularized composite allotransplantation.

Item Type:Articles
Status:Published
Refereed:Yes
Glasgow Author(s) Enlighten ID:Leonard, Dr David
Authors: Leto Barone, A. A., Leonard, D. A., Torabi, R., Mallard, C., Glor, T., Scalea, J. R., Randolph, M. A., Sachs, D. H., and Cetrulo, C. L.
College/School:College of Medical Veterinary and Life Sciences > School of Molecular Biosciences
Journal Name:Microsurgery
Publisher:Wiley
ISSN:0738-1085
ISSN (Online):1098-2752
Published Online:18 June 2012

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