ISSN : 2146-3123
E-ISSN : 2146-3131

Use of Systemic Rosmarinus Officinalis to Enhance the Survival of Random-Pattern Skin Flaps
Bilsev İnce 1, Fatma Bilgen 2, Ayşe Özlem Gündeşlioğlu 3, Mehmet Dadacı 1, Sümeyye Kozacıoğlu 4
1Department of Plastic, Reconstructive and Aesthetic Surgery, Necmettin Erbakan University Meram School of Medicine, Konya, Turkey
2Plastic, Reconstructive and Aesthetic Surgery Clinic, Elbistan State Hospital, Kahramanmaraş, Turkey
3Department of Plastic, Reconstructive and Aesthetic Surgery, Necmettin Erbakan University Meram School of Medicine, Konya, Turkey
4Department of Pathology, Necmettin Erbakan University Meram School of Medicine, Konya, Turkey
DOI : 10.5152/balkanmedj.2016.150981
Pages : 645-651

Abstract

Background: Skin flaps are commonly used in soft-tissue reconstruction; however, necrosis can be a frequent complication. Several systemic and local agents have been used in attempts to improve skin flap survival, but none that can prevent flap necrosis have been identified. 

Aims: This study aims to determine whether the use of systemic Rosmarinus officinalis (R. officinalis) extract can prevent flap necrosis and improve skin flap recovery. 

Study Design: Animal experimentation. 

Methods: Thirty-five Wistar albino rats were divided in five groups. A rectangular random-pattern flaps measuring 8×2 cm was elevated from the back of each rat. Group I was the control group. In Group II, 0.2 ml of R. officinalis oil was given orally 2h before surgery. R. officinalis oil was then applied orally twice a day for a week. In Group III, R. officinalis oil was given orally twice a day for one week before surgery. At the end of the week, 0.2 mL of R. officinalis oil was given orally 2 h before surgery. In Group IV, 0.2 mL of R. officinalis oil was injected subcutaneously 2 h before surgery. After the surgery, 0.2 mL R. officinalis oil was injected subcutaneously twice a day for one week. In Group V, 0.2 mL R. officinalis oil was injected subcutaneously twice a day for one week prior to surgery. At the end of the week, one last 0.2 mL  R. officinalis oil injection was administered subcutaneously 2 h before surgery. After the surgery, 0.2 mL R. officinalis oil was injected subcutaneously twice a day for one week. 

Results: The mean percentage of viable surface area was significantly greater (p<0.05) in Groups II, III, IV, and V as compared to Group I. Mean vessel diameter was significantly greater (p<0.05) in Groups II, III, IV, and V as compared to Group I.

Conclusion: We have determined that, in addition to its anti-inflammatory and anti-oxidant effects, R. officinalis has vasodilatory effects that contribute to increased skin flap survival.

Keywords : Rosmarinus officinalis, flap survivability, tissue defect, rosemary

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