When would a woman get a tram flap procedure for the breast?

Radiation: A tram flap will supply tissue containing its own blood supply for reconstruction of the breast. It is most frequently done for women after irradiation for breast cancer to supply enough tissue to reconstruct a breast. It is more involved than an implant but is sometimes the only possib le means to reconstruct. Coordinate this with your oncologist and plastic surgeon.

Own tissue: A tram flap is a flap using one's own tissues (autologous). Diep flaps are gaining popularity as the spare the rectus muscles, lower abdominal wall morbidity (complications) and can have less postoperative pain. Using one's own tissues are advantageous in patients that have gotten post mastectomy radiation, patients that are against implants, or have had multiple implant problems in the past.