Seroma
A seroma is the accumulation of exudate and lymph in non-preformed tissue cavities ( pseudocyst ). It can develop post-operatively in the area of superficially closed wounds. It can also occur after injuries and bumps.
A seroma contains lymph fluid or blood serum. It is therefore different from a bruise ( hematoma ) that contains red blood cells and an abscess that contains pus. In contrast to a hematoma, a seroma does not hurt when pressed.
treatment
The liquid can be sucked off sterile (“punctured”) and the area protected with a pressure bandage. There may be renewed build-up of fluid for several days to weeks, which either regresses itself or is repeatedly punctured. If the build-up of fluid does not stop, the skin is cut open and sutured again or a drain is installed.
swell
- Roche Lexicon Medicine, 5th edition, Urban & Fischer 2003, keyword seroma
- Entry on Serom in Flexikon , a Wiki of the DocCheck company