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Vasoconstrictor infiltration in breast reduction surgery: is it harmful?
British Journal of Plastic Surgery
|June 1, 1997
Summary
Adrenaline infiltration in breast reduction surgery is safe, with a low complication rate. This study found that 12.5% of breasts experienced minor issues, suggesting it is an acceptable practice.
Area of Science:
- Plastic Surgery
- Surgical Complications
Background:
- Vasoconstrictor infiltration effectively reduces blood loss during surgery.
- Adrenaline infiltration's potential for tissue harm in breast reduction surgery is not well-established.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the safety and complication rate of preoperative adrenaline infiltration in breast reduction surgery.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective review of 100 consecutive bilateral breast reduction cases (200 breasts).
- Preoperative infiltration with a solution containing adrenaline (1:100,000 concentration), lignocaine, and saline.
- Analysis of postoperative complications potentially related to adrenaline infiltration.
Main Results:
- Overall complication rate was 12.5% per breast and 21% per patient.
- Specific complications included small hematomas (2 breasts), T-junction wound problems (6 breasts), wound breakdown (5 breasts), wound infection (11 breasts), and partial nipple necrosis (1 case).
Conclusions:
- The complication rate observed in this study is within acceptable limits for breast reduction surgery.
- Preoperative adrenaline infiltration appears to be a safe adjunct in breast reduction procedures.