Abstract

ASTUDILLO CARRERA, C.X.. The protective effect of botulinum toxin on skin flaps. Cir. plást. iberolatinoam. [online]. 2011, vol.37, n.2, pp.191-199. ISSN 1989-2055.  https://dx.doi.org/10.4321/S0376-78922011000200014.

Random-pattern cutaneous flaps are very useful in Reconstructive Surgery; an adequate vascular contribution is an important factor for the survival of the flaps. We designed an experimental study elevating a total of 36 dorsal flaps, divided in 4 groups: a) 9 were controls, to which 0.9% physiological solution was applied, b) 9 with a transoperatory application of type A botulinum toxin throughout the length of the flap, c) 9 with an application of type A botulinum toxin 7 days before surgery and d), 9 with type A botulinum toxin with epinephrine applied transsurgery in all the flap. The skin flaps were analyzed 7 days after surgery with Image J program and the T Student test. We take a medium of the necrotic area: a) for the controls of 72.17 ± 3.9%, b) botulinum toxin transsurgery 5.09 ± 1.2% p = 0.032, c) botulinum toxin applied 7 days before 24.97 ± 2.7% p = 0.041 and d) botulinum toxin with epinephrine 23.90 ± 3.9% p = 0.045. We conclude that botulinum toxin acts as a protector against the suffering process - ischemia of the tissues, thanks to its vasodilator action and that it should be applied in the beginning of the surgical procedure.

Keywords : Botulinum Toxin; Skin flap survival; Epinephrine.

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