Doxycycline Injections into Drainage Tube to end fluid collection in seromas.

[Lyalla]

My Mother was just injected with Doxycycline thru her drainage tube to hopefully cause 2 large seromas to stop collecting fluid and develop scar tissue.  She had her mastectomy in Feb. and is anxious to be rid of her draining tube.  Question is - have you heard of this treatment before?  Any idea how long it will take to take effect?  And will she have to have more than one injection?  She said it burned terribly and she had to lay down at the hospital for 4 hours after the injection - nobody told her about this - is it normal?  Any side effects she needs to be aware of?  Thank you.  Anyone else out there every had this done?

[CCF-RN,MSN-JS]

Dear Iyalla, There are several different methods and substances that may be used to treat a non-healing seroma, instillation of doxycycline is one such treatment.  The surgeons at our facility use other methods, so it is difficult to speak to your specific questions.  It is best to contact your mother's surgeon to discuss your concerns and what may be expected as she is healing from the procedure as well as if further treatments are anticipated.