Effects of Hyperbaric Oxygen and Irradiation on Experimental Skin Flaps in Rats

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Abstract
This study investigated the effects of hyperbaric oxygen (HBO) and irradiation (RT) on experimental skin flaps in rats under varying conditions. Animals were assigned at random to 1 of 15 groups that represented all possible ordering effects of HBO, RT, and flap, as well as controls that included flap-only, RT-only, and HBO-only groups. Cranially based skin flaps measuring 3×9 cm were elevated on the dorsum. The surviving length was evaluated with fluorescein dye 7 days after the operation. Rats receiving HBO were subjected to four consecutive 2-hour treatments of 100% oxygen at 2.5 atmospheres with half-hour intervals of room air. Depending on the treatment condition, HBO was given either 48 hours or 24 hours before flap elevation, or within 4 hours or 48 hours after flap elevation. Rats receiving RT (60Co) were given a single dose of 1000 rads to the dorsum. Results showed that all groups receiving HBO within 4 hours after flap elevation had significantly greater flap survival length (PP<.001). Findings clearly indicate that, to be effective, HBO needs to be given as soon after surgery as possible.