Axillary lymphadenectomy for breast cancer. A randomized controlled trial comparing a bipolar vessel sealing system to the conventional technique
Luca Nespoli, Laura Antolini, Claudia Stucchi, Angelo Nespoli, Maria Grazia Valsecchi, Luca Gianotti, Luca Nespoli, Laura Antolini, Claudia Stucchi, Angelo Nespoli, Maria Grazia Valsecchi, Luca Gianotti
Abstract
Aim: To compare safety and efficacy of a bipolar vessel sealing system (BVSS) to the conventional technique in axillary node dissection.
Methods: 116 women with breast cancer were randomized to conventional node dissection surgical technique (control; n = 58) by scalpel and monopolar cautery or using an electrothermal BVSS (study group; n = 58).
Results: The median (range) total volume of fluid collected by drain and aspirations was 305 (30-1420) mL in the study group and 335 (80-1070) mL in the control group (p = 0.325). The median (range) total volume of lymph collected by percutaneous aspirations was 207.5 (40-1050) mL in the study group and 505 (270-705) mL in the control group (p = 0.010). The incidence of seroma was similar in both groups (p = 0.845). The axillary drain was removed earlier in the study group than in controls (p = 0.046).
Conclusion: The use of a BVSS offers marginal advantages when compared to the conventional technique.
Trial registration: ClinicalTrials.gov NCT01286337.
Copyright © 2012 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.
Source: PubMed