Comparison of Axillary Exclusion Versus no Exclusion on Seroma Formation after Modified Radical Mastectomy

Background: Accumulation of seroma in axilla and under mastectomy flaps is a common side effect after axillary lymph nodes dissection in mastectomy, which requires repeated aspirations and prolonged stay of the drain causing discomfort to person. Objective: To determine the effectiveness of axillary exclusion technique versus no axillary exclusion in Modified Radical Mastectomy in terms of mean drain output. Study Design: Randomized control trial. Settings: The study was conducted in department of Surgery, Allied Hospital Faisalabad Pakistan. Duration: 1 year from August 08, 2018 to August 07, 2019. Methodology: After permission from Hospital Ethical Review Committee, 60 Patients presenting for mastectomy were included in the study. They were randomly divided into two equal groups of 30 patients each applying computer generated random number table. Group A (underwent axillary exclusion) and Group B (did not undergo axillary exclusion) after modified radical mastectomy. Total amount of fluid collected in drain bag postoperatively was noted till the removal of drain and compared between the groups. Data was entered in a pre-designed proforma. Results: Comparison of axillary exclusion technique with no exclusion after modified radical mastectomy was done, it showed that the mean of the total drain output (+SD) in Group A was 1112.4ml (+66.78) whereas mean output in Group-B was 2184ml (+117.06). (Table No.1). p-value was <0.001 showing a considerable decrease in the total volume of the seroma fluid drained between the two groups. Conclusion: Study concluded that the axillary exclusion technique significantly reduces drain output in patients following modified radical mastectomy as compared to those who do not undergo axillary exclusion.