Frontiers in Oncology (Jan 2024)
Outcomes and complications of postoperative seroma cavities following soft-tissue sarcoma resection
Abstract
IntroductionSeroma development is a known complication following extremity and trunk soft-tissue sarcoma (STS) resection. The purpose of this study is to evaluate and characterize seroma outcomes and the development of associated complications.MethodsA retrospective review of 123 patients who developed postoperative seromas following STS resection at a single institution was performed. Various patient and surgical factors were analyzed to determine their effect on overall seroma outcomes.Results77/123 seromas (62.6%) were uncomplicated, 30/123 (24.4%) developed infection, and 16/123 (13.0%) were symptomatic and required aspiration or drainage for symptom relief at an average of 12.2 months postoperatively. 65/123 (52.8%) seromas resolved spontaneously at an average time of 12.41 months. Seromas in the lower extremity (p=0.028), surgical resection volume >864 cm3, (p=<0.001) and initial seroma volume >42 cm3 (p=<0.001) increased the likelihood of infection. 90% of infected seromas developed the infection within the first three months following initial resection. No seromas which were aspirated or drained ultimately developed an infection following these procedures, though 50% recurred. DiscussionMost seromas following STS resection are uncomplicated and do not require intervention, though a large resection cavity >864 cm3 and a large seroma volume >42 cm3 are risk factors for complications.
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