IMMEDIATE BREAST RECONSTRUCTION WITH FREE MICROVASCULAR TRAM FLAP

The free TRAM flap for breast reconstruction offers superior blood flo w and a lower donor defect morbidity than the pedicled flap. In the im mediate setting, it is much easier to dissect the recipient vessels, b ecause the thorco-dorsal vessels are not encased in a scarred post-mas tectomy bed, which adds to the advantage of the free flap. The operati ve technique, the results and complications of nine patients having re ceived a free TRAM for immediate breast reconstruction between 5/95 an d 3/96 are reported.