TRAM Flap for Breast Reconstruction
TRAM (transverse rectus abdominis muscle) flap is a type of breast reconstruction surgery. The surgeon takes muscle and tissue from the lower belly and moves it to the chest area. This reduces the amount of fat and skin in the lower belly and results in a "tummy tuck."
TRAM may be done as either a pedicle flap (which means the tissue is pulled under the skin and attached in the chest area without cutting its blood supply) or a free flap (which means the tissue and blood vessels are cut and reattached in the chest area).
Current as of: April 13, 2022
Author: Healthwise Staff
Medical Review:Sarah Marshall MD - Family Medicine & Anne C. Poinier MD - Internal Medicine & Kathleen Romito MD - Family Medicine & Douglas A. Stewart MD - Medical Oncology & Laura S. Dominici MD - General Surgery, Breast Surgical Oncology
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