OBJECTIVETo elucidate the reconstruction of neovascularization that occurred in the superiorly and inferiorly based posterior pharyngeal flaps in different time postoperatively.

METHODSTen mongrel dogs were randomly divided into two experimental groups, which were performed superiorly or inferiorly based posterior pharyngeal flap surgery respectively. Each group was then subdivided into five subgroups, and were sacrificed immediately after operation or on 3, 7, 30, 90 day postoperative respectively. Microangiography was used to exhibite the vessel.

RESULTS1. The blood vessel reconstruction of the superiorly based posterior pharyngeal flap was more rapid compared with the inferiorly based flap. The 3-day flap has established an axial vascular network, which was mature on the 30-day flap. The superiorly based posterior pharyngeal flap was mainly supplied by the pedicle. 2. The blood vessels reconstruction of the inferiorly based posterior pharyngeal flap was firstly occurred in the pedicle and apex of the flap, which grew slowly to the middle of the flap. The inferiorly based posterior pharyngeal flap was supplied by the pedicle and the soft palate. A mature axial vascular network was exhibited on the 90-day flap, which was not mature on the 30-day flap.

CONCLUSIONBoth superiorly and inferiorly based posterior pharyngeal flap can establish an axial vascular network and gain ample blood supply.