TUG flap
Also written as: TUG — Transverse Upper Gracilis
Transverse upper gracilis flap utilizing gracilis muscle and overlying skin from the inner thigh for breast reconstruction.
Full Definition
The transverse upper gracilis (TUG) flap is a musculocutaneous flap harvested from the medial thigh that incorporates the gracilis muscle along with the overlying skin and subcutaneous tissue. This flap is based on the medial circumflex femoral artery and provides an alternative autologous reconstruction option when abdominal tissue is unavailable. The TUG flap offers the advantage of a concealed donor site scar along the inner thigh and can provide adequate tissue volume for small to medium-sized breast reconstruction.
Usage
Usage note: Always capitalize as TUG flap; specify muscle inclusion when distinguishing from perforator-only flaps.
In Context
- "TUG flap reconstruction was selected for the petite patient who lacked sufficient abdominal tissue for DIEP flap." — Surgical case presentation
- "The TUG flap donor site healed well with minimal functional impairment of the gracilis muscle." — Post-operative assessment