A New Ultrasound-assisted Protocol to Avoid Seroma-related Complications in Prepectoral Breast Reconstruction with Acellular Dermal Matrix

Abstract

Summary: Seroma, with its secondary complications, represents one of the major unsolved problems in direct to implant breast reconstruction with acellular dermal matrix. The seroma formation not only represents a complication, but causes other secondary complications such as major infections, surgical dehiscence, and implant loss. These lead to the failure of the reconstruction. The authors have developed a new ultrasound protocol for early diagnosis and management of seroma, with the aim of detecting and treating early seroma through a series of ultrasound-guided suctions. In this way, we want to avoid the onset of seroma-related complications. After 12.5 months of mean follow-up time, we performed 22 fluid aspirations, and no seroma recurrence was reported, as well as no secondary complications. The authors believe that the introduction of this novel ultrasound protocol allows the plastic surgeon to actively and promptly manage seroma.