An analysis of quantitative measurements of drainage exudate using negative suction in 96 microtia ear reconstructions

Abstract

Negative suction drainage is commonly used for the prevention of seromas or hematomas in auricular reconstruction surgery; however, there are few reports regarding the quantitative measurement of negative suction and its relation to disposed time, patient age or microtia type. In the present study, the authors recorded the volume of suction exudate in microtia reconstruction and elaborate on the relevant details of controlling negative suction. A negative suction drainage system was applied in 96 microtia patients between 2007 and 2010. Two small polyethylene drains were inserted adjacent to the concha and the scapha, respectively. The volume of exudate was recorded for three days after surgery and was analyzed according to disposed time, patient age and microtia type. The drains were removed on the third postoperative day, when only a small amount of exudate remained. A significant change in drainage was observed over three days postoperatively, and the quantity decreased progressively on the third postoperative day. Comparison of age groups showed that the volume of drainage from adults was greater than that from children or adolescents in the first two postoperative days, regardless of whether the drains were inserted in the scapha or concha. No statistical differences were found on the third postoperative day. A comparison of drain types revealed no statistically significant differences between scapha and concha drains three days postoperatively. The analysis demonstrated that drainage quantity is related to disposed time and patient age, but not to microtia type. The authors recommend removal of suction drains on the third postoperative day. Moreover, individualized negative suction treatment according to age or microtia type provides a safe and consistent approach to achieving acceptable results and fewer complications.