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Prospective Study on Avoiding Seroma Formation by Flap Fixation After Modified Radical Mastectomy
Musluh Hakseven1, Gökhan Avşar1, Özhan Çetindağ1
1Department of Surgical Oncology, School of Medicine, Ankara University, Ankara, Turkey.
The American Surgeon
|May 15, 2023
Summary
Flap fixation using absorbable sutures after mastectomy significantly reduces seroma formation and fluid drainage. This technique allows for earlier drain removal, improving patient recovery and treatment timelines.
Area of Science:
- Surgical Oncology
- Breast Surgery
- Plastic Surgery
Background:
- Seroma is a frequent complication following mastectomy, leading to increased healthcare utilization and treatment delays.
- Current strategies aim to mitigate seroma development, a common post-operative issue.
- This study investigates flap fixation as a novel approach to seroma prevention.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the efficacy of flap fixation with absorbable sutures in reducing seroma after modified radical mastectomy (MRM).
- To compare seroma development and early complications between flap fixation and classical wound closure methods.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective analysis of prospectively collected data from 72 patients undergoing MRM.
- Patients were divided into two groups: flap fixation with absorbable sutures (Group A) and classical closure (Group B).
- Comparison of outcomes including seroma incidence, drain duration, fluid volume, and re-aspiration rates.
Main Results:
- Group A demonstrated significantly shorter drain removal times and lower total drained fluid volumes compared to Group B (P < .001).
- Significantly less seroma was aspirated in Group A during follow-up examinations (P < .05).
- Group B required significantly more re-aspirations for seroma management (P < .05).
Conclusions:
- Flap fixation with absorbable sutures effectively reduces seroma formation and drained fluid post-mastectomy.
- This technique facilitates early drain removal, potentially expediting adjuvant therapy initiation.
- The method offers patient and physician comfort, is cost-effective, and simplifies post-operative care.
