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Drains Prevent Seromas Following Lumpectomy with Axillary Dissection
Celia M. Divino1, Henry M. Kuerer, Paul I. Tartter
1Department of Surgery, Mount Sinai Medical Center, New York, New York.
The Breast Journal
|May 12, 2001
Summary
Eliminating surgical drains after breast cancer lumpectomy and axillary dissection led to higher seroma rates. This suggests drains are crucial for managing fluid accumulation post-breast cancer surgery.
Area of Science:
- Oncology
- Surgical Oncology
- Breast Cancer Research
Background:
- Traditional breast cancer lumpectomy with axillary dissection necessitates inpatient drain management.
- Surgical drains are typically used to manage fluid accumulation post-procedure.
- Hospital stays are common for drain management following these surgeries.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the feasibility and outcomes of omitting surgical drains after lumpectomy and axillary dissection.
- To compare seroma formation rates in patients managed with and without drains.
- To assess patient characteristics associated with seroma development.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective study of 80 breast cancer patients.
- Comparison between 20 consecutive patients discharged without drains and 62 previous patients managed with closed-suction drains.
- Analysis of patient demographics, tumor characteristics, and seroma formation.
Main Results:
- Seroma formation occurred in 40% of undrained patients versus 6% of patients with drains (p < 0.001).
- Undrained patients had smaller tumors and fewer nodes examined.
- Seroma formation was linked to older age, higher weight, and shorter stature.
Conclusions:
- Omitting surgical drains after lumpectomy and axillary dissection significantly increases seroma formation.
- The use of drains is a significant factor in preventing seroma development.
- Further investigation into patient selection for drainless procedures is warranted.