TRAMFLAP is a medical term that refers to a surgical technique used in breast reconstruction procedures. Specifically, it is an abbreviation for Transverse Rectus Abdominis Myocutaneous Flap.
A TRAMFLAP involves the removal of tissue, skin, fat, and muscle from the lower abdomen (transverse rectus abdominis muscle) to reconstruct the breast following a mastectomy or breast-conserving surgery. This technique allows for the transfer of the patient's own tissue to recreate a natural-looking breast mound.
During the TRAMFLAP procedure, the tissue is carefully detached, including a blood vessel that remains intact to ensure a sufficient blood supply to the newly reconstructed breast. The surgeon then transfers the tissue to the mastectomy site and shapes it into a breast mound. The blood vessel is reconnected to blood vessels in the chest area, allowing for the tissue to remain viable.
TRAMFLAP surgery offers several advantages, including the use of the patient's own tissue, resulting in a more natural and long-lasting reconstruction. Additionally, the procedure simultaneously provides abdominal contouring benefits, similar to a tummy tuck surgical technique.
However, TRAMFLAP surgery has some inherent risks and disadvantages, such as longer operative time, potential abdominal muscle weakness, and a higher risk of abdominal hernias.
In summary, TRAMFLAP refers to a surgical method where tissue, skin, fat, and muscle from the lower abdomen are used to reconstruct a breast following mastectomy, providing a natural-looking outcome.
