Inferior Pedicle Reduction Mammoplasty with or without Tourniquet: A Comparative Study.

[OBJECTIVE] To compare the perioperative findings of inferior pedicle reduction mammoplasty (IPRM) performed with or without a tourniquet.

[METHODS] This study was carried out in the plastic and reconstructive surgery department at a tertiary care center on a total of 42 consecutive women scheduled for IPRM. Patients in Group I (n = 21) underwent surgery using a tourniquet, whereas patients in Group II (n = 21) were operated on without a tourniquet. Levels of hemoglobin (Hb), hematocrit (Hct), Hct/Hb ratio, and platelet counts were noted preoperatively and on postoperative 24th and 48th h. Numbers of surgical pads and gauze sponges completely used and dripping with blood were recorded. Duration of operation, the amount of breast tissue excised on both sides, and fluid collected in hemovac drains on 48th h after operation were documented.

[RESULTS] In Group I, the operative time was significantly shorter (p < 0.001), and numbers of gauze sponges and surgical pads were fewer (p < 0.001 for both). Hemoglobin levels were significantly higher in Group I on postoperative 24th (p = 0.002) and 48th h (p = 0.007). Similarly, hematocrit levels in Group I were higher than those of Group II on postoperative 24th (p = 0.004) and 48th h (p = 0.009).

[CONCLUSION] We determined that use of a tourniquet significantly reduced the operative time and blood loss during IPRM. Therefore, our preliminary results support that tourniquet usage is practical and safe, and it may also improve the cost-effectiveness of the procedure.

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