Abstract
Background
Seroma formation is one of the most common complications following abdominoplasty. Fibrin sealant/glue has shown mixed results in seroma prevention when used in a variety of procedures. Limited information is available on its effectiveness during postbariatric abdominoplasty.
Methods
A retrospective chart analysis of 65 consecutive patients who underwent postbariatric abdominoplasty over a course of 16 months by a single surgeon was performed. Two sequential groups either receiving or not receiving fibrin sealant treatment were defined. Seroma formation and initial 24 h drain output volumes were recorded.
Results
Three patients in group 1 (9.1%) receiving fibrin sealant developed seroma. Twelve patients in group 2 (28.1%) not receiving fibrin sealant developed seroma; this was statistically significant (P=0.006). Twenty-four hour drain output was also statistically different, with higher initial output in the fibrin sealant group (222.2 mL versus 140.0 mL; P=0.047).
Conclusion
Fibrin sealant was a useful adjunct during surgical wound closure and significantly decreased seroma formation in patients undergoing postbariatric abdominoplasty.
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