Treatment for Residual Breast Hematoma

Prevention and Management

• Meticulous hemostasis during any breast procedure is the most important factor in preventing hematoma formation, as hematomas create several significant problems, including changes difficult to interpret on physical examination, evolving scar making mammography interpretation difficult, and long-lasting changes 1, 2, 3
• The American Cancer Society recommends that most breast hematomas should be managed conservatively with observation, as allowing the cavity to fill with serum typically produces better cosmetic outcomes than intervention 1, 2
• Drains in the breast should be avoided as they do not prevent hematomas effectively, according to the American Cancer Society 1, 2, 3
• Allowing the biopsy cavity to fill with serum achieves better cosmetic results than reapproximation or drainage, as stated by the American Cancer Society 1, 2
• Significant breast asymmetry or swelling is a consideration for intervention, according to Praxis Medical Insights 4
• Do not routinely place drains in breast tissue, as they do not prevent hematomas and may worsen outcomes, as recommended by the American Cancer Society 1, 2, 3