Post-Mastectomy Lymphocele after Breast Cancer Surgery: Risk Factors Evaluation

Aim of study: The main postoperative complication of mastectomies with axillary lymph node dissection is the lymphocele that can last many months after the operation. The purpose of our study was to analyze the factors that can contribute to its production. Methods: Sixty-one patients have been included in our study. The follow-up was 6 months. All patients had a mastectomy with axillary node dissection following the Madden technique. All quantities of lymphoceles during postoperative hospitalization and ambulatory care have been noted. Factors linked to patient, disease and treatment have been collected. Results: Sixty-one patients (61) operated at Joliot Curie Institute of Dakar between January and June of 2018 for breast cancer have been included in our study. Amongst the factors linked to patients, the lymphocele production is more significant for obese patients and those with prolonged aPTT (partial thromboplastin time). The weight of surgical specimens from 1001 to 1250 g was associated with greater production. It was the same for a more extensive dissection. Neither surgical factors nor chemotherapy influenced the lymphocele production. However, the extended use of a suction drain causes a more significant production. Conclusion: The production of postoperative lymphocele is heterogenous, varying from a patient to another. Nevertheless, several factors may influence the production of this lymphocele. These factors are bound to patient, sickness and treatment.