Distressing Complication after modified radical mastectomy?
Complications of Mastectomy
• Seroma
−− MC complication, beneath skin flaps and axilla, occurs in 30% cases
−− Catheter is retained until drainage is <30 ml/day
• Wound infection
−− Majority are due to skin flap necrosis
• Lymphedema
−− Occurs less frequently with the standard axillary dissections.
−− Extensive LN dissection, radiation therapy, presence of positive LNs, obesity are predisposing factors.
• Injury to Long Thoracic (Motor) Nerve
−− Seen in 10% of all cases.
−− Result in a palsy of the Serratus anterior muscle (classical winged scapula)
• Injury to Thoracodorsal Nerve:
−− Leads to palsy of the latissimus dorsi muscle.
• Redundant Axillary Fat Pad
Lymphedema
Axillary vein thrombosis
Seroma
Death