Journal of the Egyptian National Cancer Institute
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J Egypt Natl Canc Inst · Dec 2005
Comparative StudyTRAM flap for immediate post mastectomy reconstruction: comparison between pedicled and free transfer.
Breast reconstruction after mastectomy is primarily carried out to improve the patients' quality of life. The most commonly used autologous tissue for reconstruction is the transverse rectus abdominis musculocutaneous flap (TRAM). The TRAM flap could be transferred either as pedicled or a free flap with microvascular anastomosis. The following work was carried out to evaluate the two techniques. ⋯ Although free TRAM flap seems to provide several advantages over the pedicled group, namely skin volume available for harvesting, preservation of abdominal wall integrity, and better flap contouring, yet the pedicled TRAM flap is a reliable and easy technique that will produce matching aesthetic results.