Topical Dimethyl Sulfoxide for Congested Nipple-areolar Complexes in Breast Surgery: A Pilot Study

Area of Science:

• Plastic Surgery
• Surgical Complications
• Wound Healing

Background:

• Nipple-areolar complex (NAC) necrosis is a common complication of breast surgery, often caused by venous congestion.
• Existing conservative therapies for NAC congestion have limitations, including cost and side effects.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the effectiveness of topical dimethyl sulfoxide (DMSO) in rescuing congested NACs following breast surgery.

Main Methods:

• A retrospective review of 15 patients (18 NACs) treated with DMSO for NAC congestion between May 2019 and October 2020.
• DMSO was applied topically in liquid form and then as a cream post-discharge.
• Univariate analysis compared patient characteristics and treatment outcomes.

Main Results:

• Fifteen of 18 (83%) congested NACs healed successfully with DMSO treatment alone.
• Average treatment duration was 9.4 days, with healing occurring in approximately 9.9 days.
• No complications were reported in relation to DMSO application.

Conclusions:

• Topical DMSO appears to be an effective and safe treatment for NAC congestion post-breast surgery.
• Its low cost and ease of use make it a viable option.
• Further prospective studies comparing DMSO to other treatments like nitroglycerin ointment are recommended.