Seroma is invariably associated with breast cancer surgery and is a recurring, problematic issue that has affected large number of patients. MRM in patients having locally advanced breast cancer has raised serious questions about the methods of prevention and management of subsequent seroma as axillary dissection is a strong risk factor for seroma formation, most likely damaging blood and lymphatic vessels. Various methods like topical fibrin sealants, suction drainage and quilting have been used to reduce its incidence with variable outcomes. Topical tranexamic acid (TXA) was demonstrated as a unique and inexpensive pharmacologic agent capable of decreasing blood loss, hematoma, seroma, and bruising among various general surgical and reconstructive procedures.
A study was conducted to assess the impact of applying tranexamic acid topically in combination with flap fixation on wound outcomes in patients undergoing MRM for breast cancer, focusing on the incidence of surgical site infections and the volume of postoperative drainage on surgical floor, of Mayo Hospital from 2023 to 2024.
After taking approval from ethical committee a total of 62 patients were selected as per inclusion criteria. The patients were randomized into two groups i.e. Group A patients underwent topical application of tranexamic acid along with flap fixation in mastectomy wound. While in group B patients, mastectomy wound was closed without topical application of tranexamic acid with flap fixation.
Data was entered in SPSS 26 version. Comparative analysis of two groups, Group A (with topical tranexamic acid application along with Flap Fixation) and Group B (without topical tranexamic acid application along with Flap Fixation) was done by applying chi-square test for wound infection and independent t-test for drain volume. P value \<0.05 will be considered important.
Topical application of tranexamic acid, along with flap fixation has been found to decrease seroma formation and surgical site infection to a significant extent. Not only is this technique cost-effective but it is also easily applicable in patients with breast cancer who are scheduled to undergo MRM.
