Do compression garments help with drainage tubes?

Question

On May 1 I had a Pedicle tram flap surgery which included a T T to use for breast mound which was a total disaster . When in hospital one of the two abdominal tubes was removed but the second us still in draining about 28 mls ,however when I take off the compression garment (pants) I drained 48 Mls in about 6 hrs. Should I leave the garments on or take them off?

Lewis Albert Andres, MD · Answer

Hello!  Thank you for your question.  Drainage tubes along with compression are often used following such a procedure as you had. They are meant to remove the fluid from the potential space created during your surgery and allow adherence of your overlying tissue back down to the abdominal wall. I typically remove move drains once they are less than 30cc for two consecutive days. Also, I prefer to have the abdominal binder on for approximately six weeks postoperative. Thoughts vary amongst various surgeons, so discuss instructions with your surgeon. Best wishes!

C. Andrew Salzberg, MD · Answer

I would encourage you to wear the compression garment as much as you can. This will help your body to keep the swelling and fluid production down.  Hang in there. These drains can take some time.

Robert Whitfield, MD · Answer

Your drain should be tapering off at this point.  If you have desire to be seen in Austin I would be happy to see you.  I am sorry you are having a difficult time during reconstruction.  We are happy to help any way we can.Three basic forms of breast reconstruction exist. You can use your own tissue, implants or a combination of the previous two techniques. Your own tissue can be used in the form of the DIEP flap, PAP flap, SGAP flap or fat grafting. Implants can be done in one stage or two stage. Two stage reconstructions are started by placing expanders at the time of mastectomy. Once they expanders are placed they are able to be inflated as determined by wound healing. The final time consists of combining any of the above techniques.  If you are interested in being seen in Austin please give us a call.  I know this is a difficult time for you.  The majority of my practice is devoted to reconstruction for women with breast cancer or who are BRCA+

Laura A. Sudarsky, MD (retired) · Answer

Unfortunately drains are necessary , they prevent fluid build up in your tummy where the tram tissue used to live before becoming your new breast. The garment will help, and I would encourage you to wear it when up and about. It is better to keep the drain in rather than take it out while you are still draining  more than 30 cc's per day. Sometimes it stays in 3-4 weeks. If it is doing its job, your doctor will leave it in for a good reason. Hang in there a few more days.

Do compression garments help with drainage tubes?

Answers (4)

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