Autologous Skin Grafts in the Rat: Vital Microscopic Studies of the Microcirculation

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Abstract
The micro-circulation in free skin autografts was visualized by TV [television] microscopy. A motion picture, showing representative events of the microcirculation in the grafts was produced. Newly sutured grafts are practically empty of blood cells. During the 1st 3 days the graft vessels are filled with blood cells and slow circulation is observed in localized areas 48 hr. after operation. Subsequently, circulation involves more and more of the graft vessels and flow velocity is increasing. Seven days after grafting, the microcirculatory pattern is identical to that of normal skin, whereas 11 to 20 day old grafts are abundantly rich supplied with capillaries. Based upon comparison to normal skin, a semiquantitative graduation of the restoration of blood supply to the grafts is attempted.