[Breast reconstruction using free rectus abdominis myocutaneous flap].

More than 50% of patients who have breast cancer do not need a mastectomy. Since 1976, reconstruction of the breast is suitable. From 1976 to 1995, we have performed 220 breast reconstructions with a pediculed latissimus dorsi and 510 reconstructions with a pediculed transverse rectus abdominis myocutaneous flap (TRAM). So, in all, 1100 immediate breast reconstruction with either a prosthesis or a pediculed flap were performed. The specialised teams aim is to use the TRAM free transplant for immediate breast reconstruction. Between 1990 to 1995 we have performed 5 free TRAM for breast reconstruction for cancer and 6 TURBOTRAM. It is important for the woman to have an abdominal adiposity, to be able to give an excellent breast. Four out of five of the free TRAM reconstructions were successful and one give partial necrosis (4 x 4 cm). All the 6 TURBOTRAM operations were uneventful. There are many advantages with this technique: the free TRAM allows a large resection of the thoracic skin and gives a natural form to the breast, without any prosthesis. The taking of the free TRAM gives only few abdominal hernia and realize an abdominoplasty. Our aim is to perform immediate breast reconstruction with free TRAM flap.