Seroma suppression using TissuGlu® in a high-risk patient post-mastectomy: A case report

Abstract

Introduction. Post-mastectomy seromas are a common problem in modern oncological surgery. Occurrence rates of up to 59% have been reported in the literature. High-risk patients, that is, those who have received previous surgeries, radiation or chemotherapy, present a particular challenge. Several surgical techniques, including progressive tension suture application, have shown promise. Noninvasive measures such as fibrin-based adhesives have thus far not been able to prevent seroma occurrence effectively. A recent study using a lysine-derived urethane adhesive named TissuGlu®, however, showed promising results in patients after abdominoplasty. Case presentation. We used TissuGlu® to treat a high-risk 64-year-old female patient with a history of breast cancer and severe post-mastectomy seroma. The postsurgical period showed successful seroma suppression, without any adverse effects or complications. Conclusions: This type of adhesive should be evaluated as an alternative, less-invasive option for preventing seroma in patients after a mastectomy. © 2013 Eichler et al.; licensee BioMed Central Ltd.