J Reconstr Microsurg 2010; 26(2): 117-121
DOI: 10.1055/s-0029-1243296
© Thieme Medical Publishers

Extracorporeal Shock Wave Treatment in Ischemic Tissues: What is the Appropriate Number of Shock Wave Impulses?

Florian Kamelger1 , Markus Oehlbauer2 , 3 , Hildegunde Piza-Katzer2 , 3 , Romed Meirer1 , 3 , 4
  • 1Medical University of Innsbruck, Innsbruck Medical University, Innsbruck, Austria
  • 2Ludwig Boltzmann Institute for Quality Control in Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Innsbruck Medical University, Innsbruck, Austria
  • 3Department of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Innsbruck Medical University, Innsbruck, Austria
  • 4Aesthetic Austria GmbH, Woergl, Austria
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Publication History

Publication Date:
10 December 2009 (online)

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ABSTRACT

The dose-dependent effect of extracorporeal shock wave technology (ESWT) was evaluated using a murine skin flap model. Thirty-six Sprague-Dawley rats were divided into six groups (ESWT groups 1 through 5 and a control group). After surgery, shock wave impulses doses were administered: 200 (group 1), 500 (group 2), 1500 (group 3), 2500 (group 4), 5000 (group 5), and 0 (control group 6). Flap viability was evaluated on day 7. Overall, significantly smaller percentages of necrotic zones were observed in groups 2, 3, and 4 compared with groups 1, 5, and the control group (p < 0.05). ESWT treatment with 200 impulses was found to be ineffective. ESWT treatment of 5000 impulses resulted in a significant increase in the percentage of necrosis compared with other ESWT groups (p < 0.05). However, ESWT treatments between 500 and 2500 impulses at 0.11 mJ/mm2 enhanced epigastric skin flap survival significantly.

REFERENCES

Dr. Romed Meirer

Aesthetic Austria GmbH

Fritz-Atzl-Strasse 8, 6300 Woergl, Austria

Email: romed.meirer@aestheticaustria.com