The free transverse rectus abdominis myocutaneous flap in breast reconstruction after mastectomy

Breast reconstruction after mastectomy by the transverse rectus abdominis myocutaneous (TRAM) flap technique is a widely accepted method which allows reconstruction without the need for an implanted silicone prosthesis. Even in suitable patients, deficiencies of the traditional technique, where the blood supply is based on anastomotic vessels in the superior part of the rectus abdominis muscle, may lead to complications. These include flap failure, fat necrosis which may mimic recurrence of breast carcinoma or sub-optimal cosmetic results. By transferring the same abdominal tissue as a free flap based on the inferior epigastric vessels, a more reliable blood supply and better cosmetic results can be obtained. This article reports a series of 14 flaps in 13 patients in whom an entirely free flap technique was used. No flap losses were recorded and the results are judged to be superior to the traditional technique.