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Stephen W. Perkins, MD; James D. Williams, MD; Kate Macdonald, RN; Ernest B. Robinson, MD

Arch Otolaryngol Head Neck Surg. 1997;123(7):743-745.

Abstract
Objective
To evaluate the rate of hematoma and seroma formation in a series of rhytidectomies performed with and without the use of intrawound vacuum drains.

Design
Retrospective chart review of 222 consecutive face-lifts performed by a single surgeon using an identical surgical technique before and after the use of vacuum wound drains. The patients were divided into 2 groups of 111 patients each. Group 1 patients underwent surgery without drains, while group 2 patients had suction drains placed at the time of surgery.

Main Outcome Measure
The occurrence of seromas and hematomas within the first 24 hours after surgery.

Results
In group 1, 41 patients (37%) developed seromas and 9 (8%) developed hematomas; the hematomas were small and were treated by aspiration alone. In group 2, 17 patients (15%) developed seromas and 8 (7%) developed hematomas. The decrease in the rate of seroma occurrence was statistically significant, while the decrease in hematoma formation did not reach statistical significance.

Conclusions
The use of intrawound vacuum drains during the first 24 hours after surgery significantly decreases the rate of seroma formation. The occurrence of hematomas is also reduced, but less dramatically.

Arch Otolaryngol Head Neck Surg. 1997;123:743-745

Author Affiliations
From the Meridian Facial Plastic Surgery Center, Indianapolis, Ind.

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