Randomized Controlled Trial to Assess Negative Pressure Wound Therapy versus Standard-of-care Dressings in Breast Surgery: A Pilot Study

Abstract

Background: Standard breast reduction dressings such as Prineo are used to cover surgical wounds, in combination with a binder or support bra. The Prevena Restor BellaForm is a negative pressure wound therapy dressing that covers the entirety of the breast mound and is purported to provide further support and reduce swelling. The aim of this study was to compare the Restor to standard-of-care dressings. Methods: The study was a randomized control trial of women undergoing bilateral breast reduction with one breast being dressed with the Prevena Restor BellaForm dressing and the other having standard of care (Prineo). Outcomes measured were drain outputs, postoperative length of stay, quality of scarring, patient preference for dressings, and adverse events. Follow-up was at 1, 2–6, and 26 weeks. Results: The results show a reduction in postoperative days 1 and 2 average drain output on the Restor side compared with standard dressings. Patient-reported outcome measures showed less bruising. There was no difference in postoperative length of stay and no difference in appearance of scars at the 26-week follow-up period. One patient required removal of the dressing due to irritation and one patient required assistance with resealing of the vacuum. Conclusions: We have shown benefits to drain output and comfort using close incisional negative pressure therapy in breast reduction mammaplasty. We plan to continue to investigate close incisional negative pressure therapy in larger comparative trials for other breast procedures including implant-based reconstruction, where a reduction in drain output could be of great benefit to both healing and reduction of infection risk.