Prospective randomized trial of high versus low vacuum drainage after axillary lymphadenectomy

A randomized prospective trial was performed to assess the effect of low versus high vacuum drainage after axillary lymphadenectomy. The mean(s.e.m.) volume of seroma evacuated with a low vacuum system was 386(26) ml (n = 38) compared with 537(43) ml with a high vacuum system (n = 40) (P < 0.005). Low vacuum drains were removed earlier than high vacuum drains (P = 0.02). Seroma production after removal of the drains was not significantly different. The use of low vacuum drains after axillary dissection can reduce hospital stay.