DISTRIBUTION OF GLUCOSE IN PEDICLE SKIN FLAPS OF GUINEA-PIGS

Consistency of necrosis was determined in skin flaps created on the back of guinea pigs. The average amount of skin necrosis ranged from 20 to 45% of the flaps. Glucose distribution within the skin flaps was quantitated in the epidermis, hair follicles, dermis, and panniculus carnosus at various distances from the pedicle. The distal end of the flaps exhibited a drastic decrease in glucose content in all strata of skin, excluding the panniculus carnosus, while the proximal half of the flaps displayed no significant alteration in tissue glucose content during 7 days following flap elevation. The epithelium and dermis exhibited a similar degree of magnitude for the decrease in glucose level in association with skin necrosis. © 1978.