Comparison of the rates of elongation provided by multiple smaller rhomboid flaps and larger single rhomboid flap--an experimental study.

Abstract

The rhomboid flap is one of the geometric relaxation techniques used for releasing burn scar contractures. In the present study, we evaluated the question; 'which is better: one larger rhomboid flap or a series of multiple smaller rhomboid flaps?' Ten male Wistar rats each weighing 250-300 g were used. In the groups, 2.5 cm of the inguinal region was used. Two 1 cm long rhomboid flaps with spaced by 0.5 cm were used in the right side and a single 2.5 cm long rhomboid flap was used in the left side. An elongation by using single larger rhomboid flap (66%) is significantly bigger than an elongation by using multiple smaller rhomboid flaps (26%) (p<0.01).