Discovery of neuropathic pain following breast surgery

Abstract

Mrs Clark is a 45-year-old woman who had undergone a lumpectomy (Figure 1) for cancer of the right breast approximately 6 weeks ago. An incision had been made in the inner curvature of the breast and a drain inserted on the outer aspect. She subsequently had to attend the minor injuries unit for dressings to her breast as the drain site had initially become infected, with the wound producing purulent exudate. Mrs Clark’s infection had resolved and the exudate had diminished. However, the exudate had irritated the skin and she was left with a large area of excoriation. Up to this point the area of excoriation had been treated using CavilonTMNo Sting Barrier Film to protect the skin from further irritation.