Single vs. double drain in modified radical mastectomy: A randomized controlled trial

Area of Science:

• Surgical Oncology
• Plastic Surgery
• Oncology

Background:

• Modified radical mastectomy (MRM) is a common surgical procedure for breast cancer.
• Postoperative complications such as seroma formation and pain can impact patient recovery.
• The use of surgical drains is standard practice to manage fluid accumulation.

Purpose of the Study:

• To compare the efficacy of single versus double drains in reducing postoperative complications after MRM.
• To evaluate the impact of drain type on seroma formation, pain, and hospital stay.

Main Methods:

• A randomized controlled trial involving women undergoing MRM.
• Patients were allocated to either a single drain group (n=98) or a double drain group (n=98).
• Outcomes assessed included seroma formation, pain, surgical site infection, and duration of hospital stay.

Main Results:

• Single drain use was associated with significantly less postoperative pain compared to double drains (p < 0.000).
• No significant differences were observed in seroma formation (p=0.082), estimated blood loss, or duration of surgery.
• Single drain use was linked to a lower risk of overall complications (adjusted relative risk 0.47).

Conclusions:

• Preferential use of a single drain in MRM is recommended.
• Single drains significantly reduce postoperative pain and discomfort with comparable morbidity to double drains.
• This approach may improve patient recovery and satisfaction.