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A large encapsulated seroma presenting as a mass 5 years post paraumbilical hernia repair
Robert H Caulfield1, Atoussa Maleki-Tabrizi, Farrukh Khan
1St Andrew's Centre for Burns & Plastic Surgery, Broomfield Hospital, Court Road, Chelmsford, Essex, CM1 7ET, United Kingdom. rcaulfield@talk21.com
Abstract:
Abdominoplasty is a procedure commonly performed by the modern reconstructive plastic surgeon, but despite its apparent routine nature complications are well documented in the literature and should be respected by even the most experienced plastic surgeon. Seroma is one of the most common complications known, however, most seromas usually occur within a few months following the primary procedure, are easily identifiable clinically as seroma and respond to simple aspiration, or resolve without any further intervention. We report the case of a 55-year-old female who presented with an unusual large abdominal mass 5 years following paraumbilical hernia repair and which was initially presumed to be an ovarian tumour. Following further investigation of this extensive mass, an abdominoplasty approach was used resulting in the removal of a large encapsulated seroma weighing over 5 kg and measuring 50 cm in length.
Insights
This case study highlights a rare, large encapsulated seroma presenting 5 years after hernia repair, mimicking an ovarian tumor. Abdominoplasty facilitated the removal of this 5kg mass, emphasizing the need to consider delayed seroma complications.
Area of Science:
- Plastic Surgery
- Abdominal Surgery
- Surgical Complications
Background:
- Abdominoplasty is a common plastic surgery procedure.
- Seroma is a frequent complication, typically resolving within months.
- Delayed and large seromas are uncommon but documented.
Observation:
- A 55-year-old female presented with a large abdominal mass 5 years post-paraumbilical hernia repair.
- The mass was initially suspected to be an ovarian tumor.
- An abdominoplasty approach was utilized for diagnosis and treatment.
Findings:
- A large, encapsulated seroma weighing over 5 kg and measuring 50 cm was removed.
- The seroma mimicked other intra-abdominal pathologies.
- Histopathological examination confirmed the diagnosis of a chronic encapsulated seroma.
Implications:
- This case underscores the importance of considering delayed, atypical seroma formation after abdominal surgery.
- Abdominoplasty can be an effective approach for managing large, chronic seromas.
- Surgeons should maintain a high index of suspicion for unusual presentations of common complications.
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