Recurrent periductal mastitis: Surgical treatment

Recurrent periductal mastitis is a benign breast disorder that often features a mammary fistula that runs between periareolar skin and the ductal mammary system. Due to the high recurrence rate of this disease, its management is controversial. This study was designed to assess the efficacy of fistulectomy (Hadfield operation), particularly with regard to its long-term outcome.

We reviewed all women with recurrent periductal mastitis who underwent the Hadfield operation in the Breast Center in S.Orsola-Malpighi Hospital (Bologna University) from 2005 to 2015. All but one of the patients were heavy smokers and presented with a recurrent periareolar abscess and a periareolar mammary fistula.

Eighteen women underwent the Hadfield surgical treatment. Mean age at the time of presentation was 42 years; 17 of 18 women smoked >10 cigarettes/d. All patients had a breast ultrasonography or mammography. Half of the patients had undergone antibiotic therapy with one or more prior abscess drainages or another form of operative treatment. All patients who underwent operative treatment had no postoperative events and were satisfied with the cosmetic results. Squamous metaplasia was always present in the specimens. After a median follow-up of 36 months, 2 patients developed a recurrence after a few months; neither had stopped smoking.

Based on our review of the literature and taking into account the results of this study, it seems clear that the best treatment involves a combined total excision of the affected duct and the fistulous tract. Due to the important role of smoking in this disease, it is important to encourage patients to stop smoking.