Effect of Clavipectoral Fascia Suturing on Postmastectomy Seroma Formation

Pol Przegl Chir. 2023 Oct 13;96(2):31-37. doi: 10.5604/01.3001.0053.5996.

Abstract

<b><br>Introduction:</b> Post-mastectomy seroma formation is a challenging sequela which has a negative impact on patient recovery and quality of life.</br> <b><br>Aim:</b> We aim to publicize our technique of clavipectoral fascia re-closure and to assess its efficacy in reducing the incidence of seroma formation.</br> <b><br>Methods:</b> This is a prospective randomized controlled trial, conducted in South Cancer institute, Assiut University, Egypt. It included 84 breast cancer patients who were randomly divided into two groups: a control group (n = 44) and a fascia suture group (n = 40). The patients were followed up until drain removal and then to 3 months after surgery.</br> <b><br>Results:</b> The fascia suture group showed significantly shorter duration of drain removal with a significant reduction in the total amount of drained fluid and the amount of drained fluid 1 week postoperatively. One patient in the fascia suture group developed Grade 2-3 seroma vs. 7 in the control group (P < 0.05).</br> <b><br>Conclusions:</b> Clavipectoral fascia suture technique is a simple and effective method for reducing seroma formation after mastectomy in breast cancer patients and is advisable in patients at a high risk for seroma formation.</br&gt.

Keywords: breast cancer; clavipectoral fascia; fascia suture techniques; modified radical mastectomy; seroma.

Publication types

  • Randomized Controlled Trial

MeSH terms

  • Breast Neoplasms* / surgery
  • Fascia
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Mastectomy* / adverse effects
  • Mastectomy* / methods
  • Postoperative Complications / epidemiology
  • Postoperative Complications / etiology
  • Postoperative Complications / prevention & control
  • Prospective Studies
  • Quality of Life
  • Seroma / etiology
  • Seroma / prevention & control
  • Seroma / surgery
  • Sutures / adverse effects