Postmastectomy serous drainage and seroma: probable pathogenesis and prevention.

Seromas and prolonged, excessive drainage of serous fluid constitute the most common complications of mastectomy for breast carcinoma. The pathogenesis of this drainage problem is analysed from a pathological perspective and encompasses the role of biomechanical stresses involved in healing. Closed suction drainage delays healing and contributes to the accumulation of serum fluid in the wound. Suction of air into the patient's wound potentiates chronic drainage and seroma formation, adding to patient discomfort and increased risk of infection. The principle of primary union of the wound should be reinstated in mastectomies and to this end relevant changes in the surgical and postoperative management are proposed.