TRAM
Medical abbreviation · Surgical
| Stands for | Transverse rectus abdominis myocutaneous (flap) |
|---|---|
| Categories | Medical |
TRAM stands for Transverse rectus abdominis myocutaneous (flap), a surgical abbreviation.
Breast reconstruction using skin, fat and some or all of one rectus abdominis muscle from the lower abdomen to form a new breast, either left attached to its blood supply (pedicled) or transferred as a free flap. The donor site closure resembles a tummy tuck.
Example: Pedicled TRAM reconstruction; abdominal binder for six weeks.
Usage notes
Because muscle is sacrificed, TRAM flaps carry a higher risk of abdominal weakness and bulging than muscle-sparing options. The DIEP flap has replaced the TRAM in many centers. Smokers and people with prior abdominal surgery face higher complication rates.
Related abbreviations
More surgical abbreviations
- ALND – Axillary lymph node dissection
- Appy – Appendectomy
- APR – Abdominoperineal resection
- BMP – Bone morphogenetic protein
- BMT – Bilateral myringotomy and tubes
- Circ – Circumcision
- CTR – Carpal tunnel release
- Cysto – Cystoscopy
- DIEP – Deep inferior epigastric perforator (flap)
- DOS – Day of surgery
- EBL – Estimated blood loss
- ERAS – Enhanced recovery after surgery
See all 51 surgical abbreviations →
This entry is for general education and is not medical advice. Abbreviation use varies between institutions; always confirm in context.