Evaluation of IPSI-lateral versus CONTRA-lateral TRAM flap survival with static thermography in pedicled flap breast reconstruction

Since 1982 the pedicled TRAM flap has become the “gold standard” in breast reconstruction procedures. It has also been debated since then which way of transferring the tissue island is more reliable with less complications IPSI vs CONTRA [1]. The reasons for complications include the manner of twisting the nourishing blood supply and the tension due to the distance of the pedicle in IPSI or CONTRA procedures [2]. Static thermography seems to provide the solution. In our experiment we measure medial surface temperature of flaps using static thermography. The results were compared against the number of flap failures in each type of reconstruction. The study was conducted on a group of 20 female patients who underwent breast reconstruction.