A Case Report of Breast Reconstruction with Free TRAM Flap in HIV-Infected Patient

ABSTRACT

PURPOSE: Despite the increasing number of patients with HIV (human immunodeficiency virus) infection, surgical experience with these patients remains limited in aesthetic and reconstructive surgery. The authors performed breast reconsruction with free TRAM (Transverse Rectus Abdominis Muculocutaneous) flap in HIV infected patient firstly in Korea. METHODS: A 53-years-old female with HIV positive underwent delayed breast reconstruction with free TRAM flap and 6 months lateral nipple reconstruction was performed. All procedures were performed according to the HIV infection control guidelines provided by the Korea Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. RESULTS: There were no complications such as infection, hematoma and flap loss and symmetry of breast was achieved. CONCLUSION: When the operation is performed in line with the guidelines of HIV infection control, breast reconstruction with free flap is possible and can obtain successful results.