Can you see a seroma on ultrasound?
A seroma may show up on imaging tests such as ultrasound and mammogram. This most often happens after treatment of breast cancer . So, seromas may possibly cause some concern about a developing ‘lump’ or problem after treatment. However, more commonly, seromas are usually quite visible and palpable.
What is an axillary seroma?
Seroma has been defined as serous fluid collection under the skin flaps or in the axillary dead space following mastectomy and/or axillary dissection. Because the true etiology of a seroma is unknown, a multifactorial-causation hypothesis has been accepted.
What is a seroma ultrasound?
Seromas are collections of serous fluid that usually occur as a complication of surgery, but can also be seen post-trauma. They are commonly seen as an early complication of breast surgery, where a potential space is left.
How long does seroma last after lymph node removal?
Most seromas go away within 3-4 weeks after surgery. If you are experiencing pain from your seroma, call your doctor.
How do you know if you have a seroma?
The presence of a seroma can be identified if the following signs and symptoms are present:
- Transparent or clear fluid under the wound;
- A swollen spot;
- Fluctuation in the area;
- Pain in or around the wound;
- Redness and increased temperature in the area surrounding the wound.
How is axillary seroma treated?
Axillary seromas can be treated with aspiration (removing the fluid with a needle) or by placing a drain into the seroma. Small seromas may resolve on their own.
Will seroma eventually go away?
Most seromas heal naturally. They are usually reabsorbed into the body within a month , although this can take up to a year. In more severe cases, it can take up to a year for them to be reabsorbed, or they can form a capsule and remain until they are removed surgically.
How can you tell if you have an axillary seroma?
An axillary seroma may feel like a soft lump under the arm on the side of axillary surgery. If it is larger, it may show up as a bulge in the armpit. Your surgeon can diagnose a seroma by examining you and if needed by using ultrasound.
What kind of ultrasound is used to scan the axilla?
It is also very important to scan inferiorly, down through the axillary tail, because abnormal nodes are frequently found in this location as well. Levels II and III are not routinely scanned, although large level II nodes can sometimes be seen [1]. Axillary ultrasound should be performed using a high-frequency (7.5–17-MHz) linear-array transducer.
Where does seroma form after breast cancer surgery?
PATHOPHYSIOLOGY Seroma after breast surgery is defined as a serous fluid collection that develops under the skin flaps or in the axillary dead space following mastectomy and/or axillary dissection.
Where does the fluid in a seroma come from?
Pathology. It is similar to effusions that are found elsewhere. Seroma formation is thought to occur as plasma from local hemorrhage and other serous fluid accumulates at the site of tissue removal or disruption from surgery or trauma. The fluid collects within scar tissue and can accumulate to a large size causing discomfort or can be unsightly.
