tram recovery

[syj]

I had breast cancer in 1997, started w/ bilateral masectomy/saline implants, implant would get a leak or always something, so I got a ref. to a new plastic surgeon as well and he suggested tram. I had surgery 6-5-08, like second day after surgery continuous swelling in rgt breast so sent 4 ultrasound, said everything ok, I was sent home from hospital returned for post-op week later, I have 2 openings under rgt breast w/ continuous drainage and was told that the huge lump (hard as a rock) could be necrosis. My belly button drains continuously as well, was told to clean breast and belly button more. I'm very concerned about necrosis & that my belly button want heal, but most concerned w/ necrosis. Please help to understand what to do, if I'll be ok, etc.?

[syj]

Thank You for info, drainage is clear, can help w/ question of my belly button as well? drains continuously,(clear) I was told by nurse @ last post-op 7-9-08 to clean several times day w/ peroxide?????

[PaulMD]

Hi there.

It is a common consequence of reconstructive surgery to cause some form of compromise to the blood supply of the tissues involved in the reconstruction.  As a result, this would result in necrosis of that tissue, and I believe that this may really take quite some time to heal fully.  Necrotic tissues would usually resolve, however, this necrotic area may also become infected in the future that may require antibiotics or other surical procedures.

Make sure that you take note the character of the fluids draining and report to your surgeon any changes.  If the fluids develops a foul odor or becomes thick, then this may herald the presence of an infection and may need to be treated with antibiotics.

Regards.