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).