Evaluation of the combination of quilting sutures and doxycycline to prevent seroma formation following breast reconstruction with latissimus dorsi flap

Background Seroma formation is the most common complication after breast reconstruction with latissimus dorsi flap, which increases patient morbidity. Various measures have been implemented to minimize this complication. This study aimed to investigate the effectiveness of using quilting sutures and doxycycline simultaneously in preventing seroma formation following breast reconstruction with latissimus dorsi flap. Methods Twenty patients who underwent breast reconstruction with latissimus dorsi flap were included in this study. The donor site of the flap was washed with doxycycline as a sclerosant and repaired simultaneously with quilting sutures. Information regarding age, BMI, duration of surgery, the incidence of seroma, the volume of seroma formed, and the total amount of fluid aspirated from the seroma site was recorded. Statistical analysis of this information was done. Results A total of 20 patients who underwent delayed breast reconstruction with latissimus dorsi flap were studied. The average age of the patients was 41.7 years. Seroma occurred in 4 patients (20%). This amount was compared with other studies, which demonstrated a decrease in the occurrence of seroma formation. Statistically, there was no significant relationship between age, body mass index, and duration of surgery with seroma formation following reconstruction with latissimus dorsi flap (P < 0.05). Conclusions Using quilting sutures and doxycycline simultaneously in the donor site of the latissimus dorsi flap reduces the incidence and volume of seroma, as well as the frequency of seroma aspiration.