Computational modeling of skin: Using stress profiles as predictor for tissue necrosis in reconstructive surgery
Locally grown skin flaps for defect repair have revolutionized reconstructive surgery. Excessive tissue tension reduces blood supply, induces tissue necrosis, and causes flap failure. We explore the stress profiles of two common flap designs using finite element analysis. Our model predicts a correlation between regions of maximum stress and tissue necrosis. Computational models could help to accelerate healing, minimize scarring, and optimize tissue use.
skin reconstructive surgery finite element analysis membranes transverse isotropy tissue expansion