Accelerated Maturation in Prefabricated Flaps by Transforming Growth Factor‐&bgr;: An Experimental Study in the Rabbit

&NA; We evaluated whether application of transforming growth factor‐&bgr; (TGF‐&bgr;) during the first operation could shorten the interval required before creating a neovascularized flap in rabbits. Central ear vessels were transferred under the skin. After different time intervals, the flaps were raised as an island flap. In the group receiving TGF‐&bgr;, flap survival was 94% of initial length, whereas the control group reached 49% of initial length 3 days later. Five days later, flap survival was 98% in the TGF‐&bgr; group and the control group reached 78%. Histological examination revealed prominent angioneogenesis surrounding implanted vessels in the rabbits receiving TGF‐&bgr;. This suggests that TGF‐&bgr; may accelerate flap maturation. Iwasawa M. Accelerated maturation in prefabricated flaps by transforming growth factor‐&bgr;: an experimental study in the rabbit. Ann Plast Surg 1993;31:72‐75