Research Information System
EUROPEAN SURGICAL RESEARCH, vol.40, no.3, pp.256-262, 2008 (SCI-Expanded)
Backgrounds: Seroma formation is the most common complication following mastectomy and axillary dissection ( AD). Currently available interventions have aimed at obliterating dead space by inducing fibrosis and through various mechanical methods. Here, 5- fluorouracil ( 5- FU), used as a sclerosing agent for the prevention of seroma formation, was investigated in a rat mastectomy model. Methods: 20 rats were divided into two groups ( 5- FU and control). All rats underwent mastectomy and AD. Immediately following the operation, equal volumes of saline and 5- FU were administered under the surgical flaps. One week after the operation, seroma formation and wound- healing processes were evaluated using histopathological and biochemical investigations. Results: 5- FU did not act as a sclerosing agent, yet it was highly effective in preventing seroma formation. The intensity of acute inflammation, vascularity, as well as leukocyte and fibroblast infiltration, were significantly lower in the 5- FU group than the control; the tissue collagen fractions and total seroma collagen contents were found to be similar between the two groups. Conclusions: The mechanisms underlying seroma prevention by 5- FU are probably related to a decrease in the inflammation and angiogenesis rather than a local fibrotic process. Seroma formation may be due to a prolonged inflammatory phase of wound healing. Copyright (C) 2008 S. Karger AG, Basel.