The effect of epidermal growth factor on autogenous fat graft

Autogenous fat grafting is widely used for the correction of soft tissue contour deformity. However, the high absorption rate results in the need for overcorrection, and graft longevity is unpredictable. The authors hypothesized that epidermal growth factor (EGF), a potent stimulator of neovascularization, would improve fat graft survival. The experiment used two groups of New Zealand White Rabbit ear. Inguinal fat was harvested and injected with EGF or saline (n = 24, each group). The 48 cases of fat grafting were managed for observation of volume and morphologic change. The fat was harvested 3 months after the autogenous graft. The survival rate and the degree of neovascularization were measured. The grafts in the EGF group had a significantly higher survival rate than those in the control group. Histologic examination of the grafts demonstrated an increase in neovascularization and maintenance of fat cell morphology. These findings show that EGF can enhance fat graft survival and degree of neovascularization. Further well-controlled studies are required before EGF is used for clinical purposes.