Changes of microstructure of expanded skin of rabbits

Aim: To observe the changes of microstructure of expanded rabbit skin. Methods: A total of 64 New Zealand rabbits (2～3 kg) were allocated into rapid expansion and regular expansion groups. The changes of microstructure in expanded skin were observed with electroscope immediately, and at 1, 12, 24 weeks after expansion. Results:After expansion the epidermis was injured and recovered gradually. At the moment of expansion the fibroblasts in the dermis proliferated rapidly. The collagen fibers were stretched and split into pieces and the inflammatory cells infiltrated. At 1 week after expansion the continuity of the basilar membrane recovered; at 12 and 24 weeks after expansion most of the collagen fibers returned to reticular arrangement along with time with a few remained irregular and sparse in arrangement.Conclusion:The tissue expansion could cause the injury of rabbit skin, which could not recover completely.