Feracrylum does not Reduce the Incidence of Seroma Formation after Modified Radical Mastectomy

Abstract

Background: Seroma formation, a common complication after mastectomy, may necessitate many hospital visits, carries an increased risk of infection and may delay adjuvant treatment. Many different unsuccessful procedures have been tried to prevent seroma. The aim of this study was to determine whether feracrylum can reduce seroma formation after mastectomy. Methods: A double blinded prospective randomized controlled study, with 2 groups of 24 patients each, was conducted with one exposed to feracryllum and the other a control group. Results: Seroma rate was 88% in the feracrylum group while it was 38% in the control group (p<0.0001). The mean volume of drainage was less with feracrylum 695ml vs. 1486ml (p<0001). There was significant reduction in the days of drain retention 5.9 vs. 12.8(p<0.0001), and the rate of wound related complications 8% vs. 7.1% in the feracrylum group (p<0.0001). Conclusion: Feracrylum does not reduce the incidence of seroma after mastectomy but it reduces the total volume of drainage and the rate of wound complications.