Anterior rectus fascia back cut: A new modification to relieve the pressure in fascial closure of the superior pedicle of a transverse rectus abdominis myocutaneous flap

The maintenance of vascular patency is one of the key points to be considered after a pedicled transverse rectus abdominis myocutaneous (TRAM) flap has been raised and when closing the anterior rectus fascia to avoid a hernia. In this study we describe a new approach to closing the most superior part of the fascia to help insure vascular patency. Forty patients who had their breasts reconstructed with TRAM flaps made up the study group. The new back cut technique was used in 25 patients. Of the remaining 15 patients, four required early revision on the day of operation for severe venous congestion or ischaemia. None of the patients who had the back cut technique required early revision. We found the back cut technique to be safe and easy, and we think that it can reduce the incidence of flap ischaemia and still achieve tight fascial closure.