Effects of Traditional Chinese Medicine Huangqi Injection (Radix astragali) on Random Skin Flap Survival in Rats.

Abstract

BACKGROUND: Huangqi (Radix astragali) is a traditional Chinese drug, designed to "buqi," which means invigorating vital energy, widely used in clinical settings. We investigated the effect of Huangqi injection on the survival of random skin flaps. METHODS: McFarlane flaps were established in 60 rats divided into two groups. Postoperative celiac injections were given to both groups for 7 days. Huangqi was injected into the test group, and saline was injected into controls. On day 7, tissues were stained with hematoxylin and eosin, immunohistochemically evaluated, and the expression levels of xanthine oxidase determined. RESULT: The mean area of flap survival in the test group was significantly higher compared with the controls. Expression of vascular endothelial growth factor and superoxide dismutase, and microvessel development, were markedly increased in the test group, and the malondialdehyde level was reduced. CONCLUSION: Huangqi injection promotes random skin flap survival.