Comparison of the rates of elongation provided by multiple smaller rhomboid flaps and larger single rhomboid flap—An experimental study

Background The rhomboid flap is one of the geometric relaxation techniques used for releasing burn scar contractures. Purpose In the present study, we evaluated the question; ‘which is better: one larger rhomboid flap or a series of multiple smaller rhomboid flaps?’ Methods 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. Conclusion 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).