Abstract
We have evaluated the efficacy of vessel sealing system LigaSureTM Precise (LSP) compared with electrocautery for the prevention of lymophorrhea after axillary dissection in breast cancer. Significant differences were recognized in the average period of drainage tube indwelling between the LSP group (27 cases : 5.8 days) and the electrocautery group (29 cases : 7.2 days). Concerning the average volume of total exudates, the electrocautery group (517.7ml) was significantly greater than the LSP group (399.5ml). In the LSP group, three out of 27 patients (11.1% ) required puncture for seromas after removal of a drain, whereas nine out of 29 patients (31.0%) in the electrocautery group. With this comparison, six out of nine patients in the electrocautery group required more than two times of puncture and three patients from this group required the drainage again. There were no patients who required the drainage again in the LSP group. These results suggest that the use of LigaSureTM Precise is effective for prevention of lymphorrhea after axillary dissection for breast cancer.
