Pectus excavatum with delayed diagnosis of implant tear on MRI apparently causing recurrent postoperative seromas: A case report

Abstract

Seroma formation is the most common early postoperative complication after pectus excavatum repair, but later seromas are rare. While many seromas eventually resorb or decrease in size after aspiration, our case demonstrates recurrent seroma formation as a late complication of pectus excavatum repair in a patient with an implant tear. Postoperative seromas can result in prolonged chest wall pain, large chest wall masses, and increased mass effect on the heart with potential risk for resultant right ventricular outflow obstruction. This case report illustrates a solid silicone implant tear. Though rare, early recognition may help to decrease the likelihood of recurrent postoperative seromas.