Investigation of the effect of nanofat graft application on flap vascularization

Introduction and Aim: Flap surgery is one of the fundamental techniques utilized in the reconstruction of tissue defects. A critical complication in clinical practice that directly impacts surgical success is distal flap necrosis. To address this issue, recent years have seen extensive research into various pharmacological agents, stem cell applications, and recombinant growth factors for their potential to support and accelerate flap healing. Nano fat grafting, a type of fat graft obtained by mechanical emulsification of adipose tissue, has become highly popular recently due to its regenerative properties. During mechanical emulsification, adipocytes are disrupted while mesenchymal stem cells remain viable. Thus, due to the growth factors released from these stem cells, nano fat grafting stands out for its regenerative properties beyond merely providing volumetric support. This study evaluated the effects of nano fat grafting on vascularization and other histological healing parameters in random pattern dorsal skin flap models created in rats. Material and Methods: In this study, 40 Wistar albino rats were divided into four groups. Nano fat graft was prepared by mechanical emulsification of the inguinal fat pads of the rats. Flap models with different circulation patterns were used in the groups. After sacrifice on the 14th postoperative day, the flaps were excised for histopathological examination. Parameters such as inflammation, fibroblastic activity, neovascularization, re epithelialization, and necrosis were evaluated semi-quantitatively. Results: It was observed that nano fat graft application decreased inflammation and fibroblastic activity, increased re-epithelialization, and reduced necrosis. No significant difference was observed regarding neovascularization Keywords: nanofat, flap, vascularization, inflamation, fibrosis