Glucose level evaluation in monopedicled rectus abdominis myocutaneous flap after venous occlusion: experimental study in rats

ABSTRACT Objective: to validate an experimental model for the measurement of glycemic levels in surgical flaps with the use of common glucometers, and to analyze the diagnostic criteria for hypoperfusion of such flaps. Methods: we performed vertical myocutaneous rectus abdominis flaps with upper pedicles bilaterally in 20 male Wistar rats, divided into two groups: with and without venous occlusion of the pedicle. We measured glucose levels in the flaps and in the systemic circulation with standard glucometers. We tested the accuracy of alternative diagnostic criteria for the detection of hypoperfusion. Results: from 15 minutes of venous occlusion on, there was a significant reduction in glucose levels measured in the congested flap (p