Sealants after axillary lymph node dissection for breast cancer: good intentions but bad results

Abstract 

Background

This study was conducted to evaluate the effect of 2 surgical sealants on postsurgical drainage and lymphocele formation after axillary surgery for breast cancer.

Methods

This was a prospective, randomized study. Seventy-seven consecutive patients with breast cancer were included and randomized into a control group (18F vacuum drain) and 2 study groups (18F vacuum drain plus COSEAL or BioGlue).

Results

The 3 groups were matched. Neither postsurgical drainage nor time to drain removal was affected by the use of either of the 2 sealants. Although no statistically significant difference in lymphocele formation and wound infection was noted, complications caused by intense foreign-body reaction that led to surgical intervention occurred in both study groups.

Comments

The use of surgical sealants is not recommended after axillary lymph node dissection for breast cancer. Complications of their use may lead to reoperation.

Keywords: Axillary lymph node dissection, Breast cancer, Complications, Glue, Lymphocele, Sealant