The effect of botox on skin flap survival rate in rabbits in Torabinejad research center, Isfahan university of medical sciences, Iran, 2015-2016

Abstract

Background: Considering the effects of Botox, the present study aimed to determine the effect of Botox injection in survival of skin flap in rabbits. If positive effect, we can help to increase skin flap survival. Methods: In an experimental study, 6 New-Zealand rabbits were selected and each rabbit was used for two separate skin flap surgeries. Initially, two flaps were designed for each rabbit and 12 units of Botox were injected into one of them. During the first week after the Botox injection, flap was removed and sutured again. Skin necrosis was clinically studied at one and three weeks after flap removing and three weeks after flap removing in laboratory methods. Findings: One week after the intervention, the average necrotic areas were 5.00 ± 1.79 and 13.33 ± 2.07 cm2 in the experimental and control groups, respectively (P < 0.001). These amounts were 5.00 ± 1.79 and 13.67 ± 2.34 cm2 after three weeks, respectively (P < 0.001); and mean changes of necrotic area during a three-week period was different between the two groups (P < 0.001). Conclusion: Injection of Botox in the rabbit flaps leads to decrease of skin necrosis and increase of vascular density; probably, Botox injection can increase flaps survival. © 2017, Isfahan University of Medical Sciences(IUMS). All rights reserved.