After my second capsulectomy, the fluid won't stop accumulating?

Question

I've been having the drain in for almost 2 weeks after my capsulectomy and the fluid keeps coming out about 40cc/hr. my question is what makes the fluid keeps on coming out and not stop for almost 2 weeks already ?

Hayley Brown, MD, FACS · Answer

Serous drainage can occur from some sort of irritant, whether it is blood spillage in the pocket, persistent scar tissue, or simply some disruption of the lymphatics or drainage vessels from the dissection. Fluid build up from these reasons is usually self-limiting. It is important to keep your breast compressed with that side of your chest and arm at your sides to minimize mobility on that side. Increases in activity or motion can increase the output. Take it easy and be patient. You should see gradual decreases in the output over the next week or so. Stay on antibiotics and make sure you are monitored closely by your plastic surgeon. The fluid color and quality needs to be monitored as well as the drain site. Other reasons for persistent output include subclinical bacterial colonization, so the drainage should be cultured if your doctor is concerned about possible infection. I would recommend close observation for now, follow strict activity restrictions, snug compression of the breast, and hopefully it will resolve over the next few weeks.

Thomas Fiala, MD, FACS, FRCSC · Answer

This scenario would make me think about:a) incomplete capsule removalb)  low-grade infection.See your surgeon to discuss.  Try getting a culture of the drain fluid.Continue with compression of the area, and limit your arm motions on that side - activity seems to increase serous drainage.

Steven Wallach, MD · Answer

Fluid can represent many different things including but not limited to infection, raw surfaces that do not adhere to name a few. the key is if the fluid is still draining a fair amount then the drain shoudl stay in.  If it does n to get better your surgeon may want to culture the fluid.  Best to follow closely with your surgeon.

After my second capsulectomy, the fluid won't stop accumulating?

Answers (3)

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