Document Type

Abstract

Publication Date

2-11-2026

Comments

Presented at the 2026 Scholarly Inquiry (SI) Research Project Symposium.

Abstract

Introduction

The Jackson-Pratt Drain is a frequently used closed-suction, active drain system that prevents seroma and hematoma formation through negative pressure drainage. Prior research has revealed that some patients report increased surgical site pain that negatively impacts quality of life. We hypothesize that interpatient variability in pain may be associated with the location of drain placement relative to local innervation.

Methods

We are targeting 30 biologically female patients >30 years old undergoing bilateral mastectomy, excluding those with factors affecting chest wall innervation. Drain placement was measured bilaterally along an X-Y axis: X from the mid-axillary line (negative medial, positive lateral) and Y as vertical distance from the jugular notch. Measurements will be normalized, plotted, and overlaid with pain scores collected via the PEG three-item scale on postoperative days 2, 7, and 14.

Results

Many of the observed drain placements were in similar areas. Still, preliminary data revealed that a patient with a drain placed closer to the mid-axillary line reported greater pain. We will continue collecting data to reveal any meaningful correlations and may expand to include other surgeons to allow for variation in placement.

Discussion

Early findings suggest a correlation between placement closer to the mid-axillary line and higher pain. The pain is possibly due to irritation in a high-friction area; however, more data is needed to determine the exact cause. Our preliminary cases lack placement variability; therefore, including additional surgeon data may be necessary. Continued data collection may help identify high-pain sites to avoid in future drain placement.

Language

English

Download

Share

COinS