Investigation of a modified reverse saphenous conduit flap in the dog

Abstract

SummaryThis experimental study investigated the feasibility of a modified reverse saphenous conduit flap (RSCF). Modified reverse saphenous conduit flaps were harvested bilaterally in 11 experimental dogs. Each flap was based on preservation of either the cranial or caudal branch of the medial saphenous artery and vein, but not both. In five dogs, flaps were elevated from a medial femoral donor site and subsequently sutured into their normal anatomical positions (orthotopic flap). Four of five orthotopic flaps based on the cranial saphenous vessels and three of five orthotopic flaps based on the caudal saphenous vessels survived in their entirety. Orthotopic flaps demonstrated an “all or none” survival pattern. In the second phase, flaps were elevated bilaterally from a medial femoral donor site and transferred to a metatarsal skin defect using a bridging incision in six dogs (heterotopic flaps). Two of six heterotopic flaps, based on the cranial saphenous vessels and two of six based on the caudal saphenous vessels, survived in their entirety. Three flaps, based on the cranial pedicle and two flaps based on a caudal pedicle, experienced partial survival. One flap based on the cranial pedicle and two flaps based on the caudal pedicle experienced total flop failure. Survival of the modified reverse saphenous conduit flap, as described herein, is inconsistent and, therefore, its use cannot be recommended. Additionally, the results suggest that the reverse saphenous conduit flap should be used with caution in cases where trauma or surgery has embarrassed the integrity of either the cranial or caudal vascular branch.