Microdochectomy
Recurrent Nipple Infections: In cases where recurrent infections are related to specific breast ducts, removal of the affected duct may be considered.
Surgical Techniques:
Microdochectomy is typically performed as a minor surgical procedure and involves the following steps:
Anesthesia: The procedure is usually done under local anesthesia, meaning the patient is awake, but the surgical area is numbed to prevent pain.
Incision: A small incision is made near the nipple or areola to access the affected milk duct. The location of the incision aims to minimize scarring and ensure cosmetic outcomes.
Duct Removal: The surgeon carefully identifies and removes the affected milk duct. This is a meticulous process to ensure complete removal.
Suture Closure: After duct removal, the incision is closed with sutures. The surgeon takes care to ensure an aesthetically pleasing result.
Recovery and Postoperative Care:
Recovery following microdochectomy is generally straightforward, and specific care considerations include:
Wound Care: Patients are advised to keep the incision site clean and dry to minimize the risk of infection.
Pain Management: Mild discomfort or pain at the surgical site is common and can be managed with over-the-counter pain relievers.
Activity Restrictions: Patients are typically encouraged to avoid strenuous activities or heavy lifting for a brief period to support proper wound healing.
Follow-Up Appointments: Regular follow-up appointments with the surgeon are important to monitor healing and address any concerns.
Pathology Examination: The excised duct may be sent for pathological examination to rule out malignancy and confirm the diagnosis.
Potential Complications:
Microdochectomy is generally a low-risk procedure, but potential complications may include:
Infection: Infection at the surgical site is possible but can be treated with antibiotics.
Scarring: While efforts are made to minimize scarring, some degree of scarring is inevitable, and its appearance varies among individuals.
Changes in Nipple Sensation: Some patients may experience temporary or permanent changes in nipple sensation, such as increased or decreased sensitivity.
Recurrence: In rare cases, nipple discharge may recur if there are other milk ducts involved or if there is an underlying condition not addressed by the procedure.
Role in Managing Breast Conditions:
Microdochectomy plays a crucial role in diagnosing and managing breast conditions related to persistent nipple discharge:
Diagnostic: The procedure helps diagnose the underlying cause of nipple discharge and may rule out malignancy, giving patients peace of mind.
Therapeutic: For cases where recurrent nipple discharge is related to specific ducts, microdochectomy can offer a therapeutic solution by removing the affected ducts and alleviating symptoms.
Risk Reduction: In cases where malignancy is a concern, microdochectomy can help reduce the risk of breast cancer by addressing any precancerous or suspicious changes within the ducts.
Medical References:
Ranjit, R., & Davies, E. L. (2015). Microdochectomy: A Simple Technique for Managing Persistent Pathological Nipple Discharge. Breast Care, 10(2), 139-141. https://www.karger.com/Article/FullText/375974
Shousha, S., & O’Hara, C. (2008). Evaluation of nipple discharge: The role of major and minor duct excision. International Journal of Breast Cancer, 2008. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2668014/
Houssami, N., Ciatto, S., Macaskill, P., Lord, S. J., & Warren, R. M. (2007). Digital assessment of microcalcifications in mammographic screening: Comparison of prospective data from two countries. European Radiology, 17(1), 48-53. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/16685519/
These medical references offer further insights into microdochectomy, covering topics such as its diagnostic and therapeutic roles in managing breast conditions, as well as its effectiveness in evaluating nipple discharge. They provide valuable information for both medical professionals and patients seeking a better understanding of this surgical procedure