Minimizing Donor-Site Morbidity Following Bilateral Pedicled TRAM Breast Reconstruction With the Double Mesh Fold Over Technique
Document Type
Article
Publication Date
5-1-2013
Description
INTRODUCTION: Transverse rectus abdominus muscle flaps (TRAM) can result in significant abdominal wall donor-site morbidity. We present our experience with bilateral pedicle TRAM breast reconstruction using a double-layered polypropylene mesh fold over technique to repair the rectus fascia. METHODS: A retrospective study was performed that included patients with bilateral pedicle TRAM breast reconstruction and abdominal reconstruction using a double-layered polypropylene mesh fold over technique. RESULTS: Thirty-five patients met the study criteria with a mean age of 49 years old and mean follow-up of 7.4 years. There were no instances of abdominal hernia and only 2 cases (5.7%) of abdominal bulge. Other abdominal complications included partial umbilical necrosis (14.3%), seroma (11.4%), partial wound dehiscence (8.6%), abdominal weakness (5.7%), abdominal laxity (2.9%), and hematoma (2.9%). CONCLUSIONS: The TRAM flap is a reliable option for bilateral autologous breast reconstruction. Using the double mesh repair of the abdominal wall can reduce instances of an abdominal bulge and hernia.
Citation Information
Bharti, Gaurav; Groves, Leslie; Sanger, Claire; Thompson, James; David, Lisa; and Marks, Malcolm. 2013. Minimizing Donor-Site Morbidity Following Bilateral Pedicled TRAM Breast Reconstruction With the Double Mesh Fold Over Technique. Annals of Plastic Surgery. Vol.70(5). 484-487. https://doi.org/10.1097/SAP.0b013e31828569c0 PMID: 23542860 ISSN: 0148-7043