[Ehancement of tissue expansion in guinea pig by local delivery of chemical agents using a new type expander].

OBJECTIVE: To search for the new method to increase the rate of tissue expansion. METHODS: A new type of double-lumen expander was buried in the back of guinea pig. Through the expander chemical agents (papaverine) were delivered. RESULTS: The new expander could effectively deliver chemical agents. In comparison with the control group, the blood flow, survival length and the length to width ratio of the expanded flap in the experimental group increased statistically. The immediate retraction ratio of the flap decreased significantly. The epidermis was thicker while the dermis was not significant different from the control. The panniculus carnosus was significant thinner in the expanded group than the unexpanded group. The deep connective tissue was statistically thinner in the group using the new type expander. CONCLUSION: The new type of expansion method could accelerate tissue expansion rate and improve the quality of expanded skin and flap.