Topical application of capsaicin and flap survival

A study has been undertaken to investigate the relationship of capsaicin administration to flap survival. Skin flaps measuring 9 by 2 cm in size were raised on the dorsum of rats and covered with silicone gel sheet either containing or not containing capsaicin. Topical application of capsaicin transcutaneously resulted in a significant increase in the area of flap survival (P<0.01).