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Semin Plast Surg 2000; 14(2): 55-69
DOI: 10.1055/s-2000-8429
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© 2000 by Thieme Medical Publishers, Inc.

Surgically Delayed TRAM Flap: Scientific Foundations and Clinical Applications

Richard J. Restifo
  • Attending Surgeon, Yale-New Haven Hospital, Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery Associates, New Haven, CT
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Publication History

Publication Date:
31 December 2000 (online)

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ABSTRACT

The TRAM flap is a popular and versatile technique for autologous tissue breast reconstruction. Certain patient populations, however, remain at high risk of vascular insufficiency of the TRAM flap with the sequelae of flap necrosis and fat stiffness. One option to reduce the risk of TRAM flap vascular ischemic compromise is a preliminary surgical delay procedure. This article briefly reviews the scientific basis of the delay phenomenon and offers an algorithm for implementation of the delay procedure for TRAM flap breast reconstruction in clinical practice.

Keywords

Breast reconstruction - TRAM flap - delayed procedure - complications