The relationship between Prostaglandin E1 applied area and flap survival rate

Abstract Using a silicone gel sheet continuous drug delivery system containing Prostaglandin E1 (PGE1), the relationship between flap survival rate and the site of drug application was studied. Skin flaps measuring 2 × 9 cm were raised on the dorsum of rats, and divided into 3 areas. Area 1 was within 3 cm of the flap tip, area 2 was between 3–6 cm from the flap tip including the critical zone, and area 3 was the portion within 4 cm of the flap base. Further, area 4 was a strip of skin around the flap, 1 cm in width. Compared to the control group, a significant increase in flap survival rate was seen only when PGE1 was administered to area 2 (p