Effects of Neoadjuvant Chemotherapy and Radiotherapy on Flap Perfusion in a Novel Mouse Model Using Standard Clinical Assessment and Near-Infrared Fluorescence Angiography

Purpose: Minimizing surgical morbidity after local fl ap reconstruction is important in the management of cutaneous defects. Controversy exists in current literature regarding the effects of radiation and chemotherapy on fl ap perfusion. Neoadjuvant treatments can damage the microvasculature of the surgical bed through fi brosis, endothelial cell damage, and reduced cell proliferation, which collectively increase the likelihood of postoperative fl ap failure.