Effect of Biocompatible Hydrogel Microspheres on the Survival of Random Skin Flaps

Abstract

This study aimed to explore the effect of hydrogel microspheres on the survival of random skin flaps. Gelatin methacryloyl (GelMA) microspheres were fabricated and then directly injected into the random skin flaps in an experimental group, while normal saline was similarly administered to the control group. Seven days after operation, the necrosis rate, morphological changes, and microvessel density of the flap tissues were observed by histological staining. The flap necrosis rate was 49.3 ± 6.5% (n = 6) in the control group and 44 ± 2.3% (n = 6) in the microsphere group (p> 0.05). The hematoxylin and eosin images demonstrated no significant morphological differences between the two groups. Additionally, immunohistochemical analysis of CD31 showed that the microvessel density was 49.0 ± 8.0 microvessels/field (n = 6) in the control group and 72.3 ± 14.5 microvessels/field (n = 6) in the microsphere group, indicating a significantly increased microvessel density in the microsphere group compared with the control group (p< 0.05). GelMA hydrogel microspheres are a safe and feasible option that can be offered to promote flap survival. (Am J Transl Med 2020. 4:151-161).