Exercise Barriers and Facilitators After Transverse Rectus Abdominis Myocutaneous Flap Breast Reconstruction

ABSTRACT

Purpose@#The purpose of this study was to understand the experience of exercise participation among patients following transverse rectus abdominis myocutaneous (TRAM) flap breast reconstruction surgery. @*Methods@#A phenomenological method was used in this study. Exercise experiences for twelve patients, who had undergone TRAM flap breast reconstruction, were collected through focus group interviews. @*Results@#The factors that contributed to exercise barriers in the experience of TRAM flap breast reconstruction patient exercise participation were categorized into 3 groups ‘fear of exercise after surgery’, ‘weakened emotional condition’, and ‘lack of exercise information’. Exercise facilitators after TRAM flap breast reconstruction were also categorized into 3 groups ‘desire to improve appearance’, ‘feasiable exercise program’, and ‘exercise experience’. @*Conclusion@#The results of this study reveal the exercise barriers and facilitators for patients following TRAM flap breast reconstruction, which should be considered to develop effective exercise programs.