Effects of Fibrin Glue on Postoperative Complications After Modified Radical Mastectomy for Breast Carcinoma.

Background Seroma formation is a common postoperative complication following modified radical mastectomy (MRM) for breast cancer, contributing to delayed wound healing, increased morbidity, prolonged hospitalization, and delay in adjuvant treatment. Fibrin glue, a biological adhesive, is proposed to reduce seroma formation by sealing lymphatic channels and reducing dead space. This study evaluated the effectiveness of fibrin glue combined with closed suction drainage in reducing postoperative complications following MRM compared to suction drainage alone. Methodology A prospective observational study was conducted at a tertiary care center from March 2024 to September 2025. Patients undergoing MRM were divided into the following two groups: Group A (fibrin glue + suction drain) and Group B (suction drain only). Postoperative parameters including drain output, pain scores, seroma formation, wound complications, and hospital stay were recorded. Statistical analysis was performed using the Mann-Whitney U test and chi-square test, with p-values <0.05 considered significant. Results The mean age was 55.58 ± 10.01 years in Group A and 54.50 ± 8.08 years in Group B (p = 0.800). Mean body mass index was 26.89 ± 5.14 kg/m² and 27.03 ± 4.48 kg/m², respectively (p = 0.832). Postoperative drain output on postoperative day (POD) one was significantly lower in the fibrin glue group (28.07 ± 17.93 mL) compared to the control group (51.15 ± 7.31 mL; p = 0.001), with similar significant differences noted through POD seven. Total drain output was 251.95 ± 236.22 mL in Group A versus 522.10 ± 260.18 mL in Group B (p = 0.003). Drain removal was earlier in the fibrin group (3.16 ± 0.37 days vs. 5.90 ± 1.59 days; p < 0.0001). Seroma occurred in 0% of Group A and 5.26 % of Group B patients (p = 0.299). Mean hospital stay was 4.36 ± 1.11 days in Group A and 10.50 ± 2.64 days in Group B (p < 0.0001). Wound dehiscence was observed only in the non-fibrin group (10.5%). Conclusions Fibrin glue significantly reduced total drain output, time to drain removal, and hospital stay. Although the reduction in seroma incidence was not significant, the overall clinical outcomes favor fibrin glue as an effective adjunct in post-MRM management.