What is flap surgery breast?

What is flap surgery breast?

Surgery Overview. Tissue flap surgery is a way to rebuild the shape of a breast using skin, fat, and possibly muscle from another part of the body. It is usually done after part or all of the breast is removed (mastectomy) because of cancer. It may also be done for women who have problems with breast development.

What is a reconstruction flap?

Flap reconstruction (also called tissue-based reconstruction) is a procedure that involves moving healthy, live tissue from one location on your body to another. Usually this live tissue is moved to areas that have lost skin, fat, muscle movement, and/or skeletal support.

Is a TRAM flap a free flap?

The “free flap” (microsurgical) TRAM commonly uses the same tissue as the “tunneling” method described above. The main difference in the free TRAM reconstruction is that the tissue, rather than remaining attached, is completely removed from the body.

What is the correct code for a breast reconstruction performed with a free flap?

Code 19364, Breast reconstruction with free flap, is the appropriate code to report free flap breast reconstruction, regardless of the specific free flap used. It may be a free transverse rectus abdominis myocutaneous (TRAM), a free DIEP, or a gluteal free flap.

What are the basic methods of breast reconstruction with flap?

There are two main techniques for reconstructing your breast: Implant reconstruction: Inserting an implant that’s filled with saline (salt water) or silicone gel. Autologous or “flap” reconstruction: Using tissue transplanted from another part of your body (such as your belly, thigh, or back).

What is myocutaneous flap?

Myocutaneous flaps are compound flaps with a solitary vascular supply incorporating skin, subcutaneous tissue, fascia, and the underlying muscle. Once a pedicled or free-tissue transfer is performed, the newly transferred flap begins to incorporate into the surrounding tissue.

What is transverse rectus abdominis myocutaneous flap?

This is usually done by passing the muscle tissue and blood vessels through a tunnel under the skin to the chest. A transverse rectus abdominis myocutaneous flap forms a natural-looking breast, so the patient usually does not need a breast implant. It is a type of breast reconstruction. Also called TRAM flap.

What does CPT code 19318 include?

CPT® 19318 in section: Repair and/or Reconstruction Procedures on the Breast.

How long does flap surgery take?

The tiny blood vessels in the flap, which will feed the tissue of your new breast, are matched to blood vessels in your chest and carefully reattached under a microscope. DIEP flap reconstruction surgery takes about 6 to 8 hours.