Effect of Korean red ginseng extract on flap survival and angiogenesis in rat model

Despite its poor predictability of survival, random pattern skin flap has been the most commonly used reconstructive method until recently. To overcome its shortcomings, there have been numerous pharmacologic trials and research to enhance survivability. The authors tried Korean red ginseng extract (KRGE), a well-known herb remedy for its outstanding angiogenecity and vasculogenic properties.

A total of 36 male SD rats weighing 300 to 350 g were used. Rats were divided into three groups, and 12 rats were distributed into each group. Group 1 was the control, where the rats were not given KRGE, group 2 contained rats given 100 mg/kg KRGE for 2 weeks, and group 3 contained rats given 200 mg/kg KRGE over the 2-week period. Skin flap survival was measured after 7 days postoperatively. Also, using micro-SPECT-CT, we evaluated vasculogenesis by direct visualization on the third postoperative day. By immunohistochemistry, we confirmed the increase of new vessel formation, and from polymerase chain reaction studies, we investigated the overproduction of numerous growth factors.

Compared to the control group, the experimental groups showed significantly lower necrotic areas of the flap. It was possible to confirm that the oral intake of red ginseng helps flap survival in a random pattern animal model, as demonstrated by the increasing growth factor production and angiogenesis.

The results provide a valuable reference for further preclinical studies of KRGE in flap surgery and various reconstructive methods in the plastic surgical field.

Level of Evidence: Not ratable.