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TRAM flap breast reconstruction after abdominal liposuction
Christopher L Hess1, Roberta L Gartside, Jason C Ganz
1Division of Plastic Surgery, Medstar-Georgetown University Hospital, Washington, DC, USA. hesschristopher@hotmail.com
Annals of Plastic Surgery
|July 23, 2004
Summary
Autologous breast reconstruction using transverse rectus abdominis musculocutaneous (TRAM) flaps is feasible even after abdominal liposuction. This study demonstrates successful TRAM flap breast reconstruction in patients with prior abdominal lipectomy.
Area of Science:
- Plastic Surgery
- Reconstructive Surgery
- Oncologic Surgery
Background:
- The transverse rectus abdominis musculocutaneous (TRAM) flap is a standard for autologous breast reconstruction.
- Abdominal liposuction is considered a relative contraindication due to potential damage to perforator vessels supplying the TRAM flap skin paddle.
Observation:
- This study presents two cases of successful unilateral breast reconstruction using single-pedicle TRAM flaps in patients with a history of suction-assisted abdominal lipectomy.
- The patients underwent these procedures following mastectomies.
Findings:
- The authors found that TRAM flap breast reconstruction is achievable despite prior abdominal liposuction.
- The musculocutaneous perforators remained viable for flap circulation in these cases.
Implications:
- Prior abdominal liposuction may not be an absolute contraindication for TRAM flap breast reconstruction.
- These findings could expand reconstructive options for breast cancer patients who have undergone abdominal lipectomy.
- Further research may validate this approach in a larger patient cohort.