Management of accessory breast tissue in the axilla

Authors: Down S.; Barr L.; Baildam A.D.; Bundred N.

Source: British Journal of Surgery, Volume 90, Number 10, October 2003 , pp. 1213-1214(2)

Publisher: John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.

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Abstract:

Background:

Accessory breasts occur in 0·4–6 per cent of women. They may be asymptomatic or cause pain, restriction of arm movement, cosmetic problems or anxiety. It is currently recommended that all accessory breasts be removed surgically but complications following this procedure have been poorly documented.

Methods:

All patients who presented with axillary accessory breasts between July 1999 and October 2000 were identified from a computer database. A retrospective review of patients listed for excision of accessory breast tissue was undertaken to determine any postoperative complications.

Results:

Women with axillary accessory breasts represented 0·5 per cent of all new referrals. A total of 28 women (80 per cent of those diagnosed) had surgery. Eleven patients experienced postoperative complications; the majority followed operations performed by a trainee.

Conclusion:

Excision of accessory axillary breast tissue was associated with significant morbidity. Copyright © 2003 British Journal of Surgery Society Ltd. Published by John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.

Document Type: Research article

DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.1002/bjs.4225

Affiliations: 1: Manchester Breast Unit, South Manchester University Hospitals Trust, Manchester, UK

Publication date: 2003-10-01

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