Trunk Muscle Function and Core Stability in Women Who Had Muscle-Sparing Pedicled Transverse Rectus Abdominis Myocutaneous Flap Breast Reconstruction

CONCLUSIONS: Women exhibit trunk flexor and extensor weakness along with poor endurance and impaired core stability even after an average of 10 months from receiving the TRAMmsp flap procedure. Immobilization after surgery, with possible systemic inflammatory effects from surgery and chemotherapy, might have further contributed to the generalized weakness subsequent to the partial harvesting of the rectus abdominis.IMPACT: Women after breast reconstruction with the TRAMmsp flap procedure show long-lasting deficits of strength and endurance in abdominal muscles, back extensors, and core stability. Proactive measures including early detection and evaluation of impairments as well as timely intervention targeting these clients are important to minimize the dysfunction and support their return to community participation.PMID:38394671 | DOI:10.1093/ptj/pzae026
Source: Physical Therapy - Category: Physiotherapy Authors: Source Type: research