transverse rectus abdominis myocutaneous flap [also called TRAM flap]
The transverse rectus abdominis myocutaneous muscle tissue is located in the lower abdomen. In most women there is enough skin, fat, and muscle here to reconstruct a new breast. The tissue can be detached and moved, or the tissue can remain attached as a flap and slid under the skin up to the chest. In either case, the tissue is sewn into place as a new breast. The excess skin and fat that are removed from the lower abdomen can be considered a "tummy tuck", which some women appreciate as a fringe benefit from the surgery.
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Audio contributed by: Katie Couric
