[Reconstruction of the female breast with free transverse lower abdominal flap as perforator flap].

Abstract

The DIEP flap was introduced to autogenous breast reconstruction to avoid defects in the abdominal rectus muscle as created in pedicled and free TRAM flaps. This flap has the same soft tissue dimension as the other transverse abdominal flaps. In addition it has the advantages of free TRAM flaps, i.e. good perfusion and excellent aesthetic qualities and offers the possibility to reduce donor site morbidity.