Effects of batroxobin treatment on the survival of random skin flaps in rats

Objective: Batroxobin is a medicinal preparation extracted from the venom of the Fer-de-Lance snake, and is used to lower blood viscosity, promote blood fibrinogen decomposition, and inhibit thrombosis. This research is to investigate whether batroxobin can improve the survival of random skin flaps in a rat model. Materials and methods: Dorsal McFarlane flaps were harvested from 36 rats divided into two groups. Experimental group: Batroxobin was administered via the tail vein once daily. Control group: The same amount of normal saline was injected instead. On day 2, superoxide dismutase (SOD) and malondialdehyde (MDA) levels were measured. On day 7, tissue slices were stained with haematoxylin and eosin. Expression of vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) was immunohistochemically evaluated. Microcirculatory flow was measured by laser Doppler flowmetry. Flap angiography, using the lead oxide-gelatin injection technique, was performed with the aid of a soft X-ray machine. Results: The batroxobin group exhibited a greater mean flap survival area, a better microcirculatory flow, and higher-level expression of SOD and VEGF compared with the control group. However, the MDA level was significantly reduced. Conclusion: Batroxobin effectively improved the survival of random skin flaps.