The effect of Gingko biloba extract (Egb 761) as a free radical scavenger on the survival of skin flaps in rats -: A comparative study

Free radicals may have a role in pedicle flap necrosis. We undertook this study to compare the effect of various antioxidants and scavengers of free radicals such as vitamin E, vitamin C, deferoxamine, and Gingko biloba extract (Egb 761) on McFarlane caudal-based dorsal rat flaps. Fifty rats were divided into five groups of 10 animals each. One group served as a control (saline) group. The remaining four groups were given vitamin C 340 mg/kg, deferoxamine 150 mg/kg, Egb 761 100 mg/kg, and vitamin E 20 mg/kg. The necrosed area of flap was significantly reduced in the deferoxamine (p < 0.001), Egb 761 (p < 0.001), and vitamin C (p < 0.05) groups compared with the control group. Vitamin E had no effect on distal flap necrosis (p = 0.20).