Hyperintensity of integrin‐targeted fluorescence agent IntegriSense750 accurately predicts flap necrosis compared to Indocyanine green

Abstract

Background Flap necrosis is a feared complication of reconstructive surgery. Current methods of prediction using Indocyanine green (ICG) lack specificity. IntegriSense750 is a fluorescence agent that binds sites of vascular remodeling. We hypothesized that IntegriSense750 better predicts flap compromise compared to ICG. Methods Fifteen mice underwent lateral thoracic artery axial flap harvest. Mice received an injection of ICG (n = 7) or IntegriSense750 (n = 8) daily from postoperative days (POD) 0–3 and were imaged daily. Mean signal‐to‐background ratios quantified the change in fluorescence as necrosis progressed. Results Mean signal‐to‐background ratio was significantly higher for IntegriSense750 compared to ICG on POD0 (1.47 ± 0.17 vs. 0.86 ± 0.21, p = 0.01) and daily through POD3 (2.12 ± 0.70 vs. 0.96 ± 0.29, p < 0.001). Conclusions IntegriSense750 demonstrates increased signal‐to‐background ratio at areas of flap distress compared to ICG which may increase identification of flap necrosis and improve patient outcomes.