Endothelin Reduces Blood Flow in Experimental Skin Flaps

An island buttock flap based on the deep circumflex iliac artery and vein was raised in four pigs. Cutaneous laser Doppler blood flow (LDF) and total venous outflow (VO) from the flaps were measured. Intra-arterial infusion of endothelin-1 (0.3-2.5 nmol) through a branch of the deep circumflex iliac artery induced a pronounced and long lasting decrease in both LDF and VO. The maximal mean reductions being 95.3% and 73%, respectively, were seen within 5 minutes of the infusion. Intra-arterial infusions of endothelin in the circumflex iliac artery on the contralateral side caused a considerable reduction in intact skin LDF. Endothelin has potent vasoconstricting properties and its possible release and effect must be considered in reconstructive surgery.