The Effects of Hyperbaric Oxygen on Free Flaps in Rats

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Abstract
• The effects of hyperbaric oxygen on survival were investigated in free flaps and island flaps. Skin flaps transplanted following 18,21, and 24 hours of preservation at 24°C demonstrated survival rates of 20%, 10%, and 0%, respectively. Treatment with hyperbaric 100% oxygen improved the survival rates to 66%, 67%, and 40%. A preservation time of 21 to 24 hours at room temperature appears to be the threshold of irreversible ischemic damage. In acute island flaps, flap survival was improved significantly from 35% to 53% and 64% of the random flap area by preoperative or postoperative treatment, respectively. Prolonged preoperative and postoperative treatment improved survival to 66%. (Arch Surg. 1990;125:607-609)