Two surgical techniques to prevent fluid buildup after breast removal

This trial is testing whether a newer surgical technique called quilting sutures works as well as — or better than — the standard approach of using surgical drains after mastectomy. In the quilting suture technique, the surgeon stitches the skin directly to the chest muscle instead of placing a drain, which may reduce fluid buildup and other complications after surgery.

After mastectomy, fluid often collects under the skin (called a seroma), which can cause discomfort, limit shoulder movement, increase infection risk, and delay other cancer treatments. Researchers want to know if the new quilting suture technique can prevent these problems better than traditional drains, while keeping the same good pain control and cosmetic results.