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McKesson Clinical Reference Systems: Women's Health Advisor 2002.2
Breast Cyst Drainage
What is a breast cyst drainage?
A breast cyst drainage is a procedure in which the doctor
drains a cyst in your breast and sends the fluid to the lab
for analysis.
When is it used?
The cyst may be causing you discomfort and concern. It may
make it more difficult for you and the doctor to feel the
area behind the cyst during your breast exams. After the
doctor drains the cyst, your breast should feel better and
be easier to examine. In addition, the doctor can send the
fluid to the lab to see if the cyst is benign or cancerous.
Examples of alternatives are:
- to have the cyst removed surgically
- to choose not to have treatment, recognizing the risks
of your condition.
You should ask your doctor about these choices.
How do I prepare for a breast cyst drainage?
No particular preparation is necessary.
What happens during the procedure?
You will probably be given a local anesthetic. A local
anesthetic numbs part of your body while you remain awake.
It should keep you from feeling pain during the operation.
The doctor will place a needle inside another needle and put
them into the cyst in your breast. The doctor may put a
soft tube inside the needles and into the cyst to drain
fluid from the cyst. The doctor will then remove the
needles and leave the tube in place.
The tube may remain in place for a few days to help the
cyst drain and the area around the cyst heal. In most
cases, some of the liquid from the cyst will be tested for
cancer.
What happens after the procedure?
You should keep the area around the drain tube clean until
the tube is removed. The tube and needles will make a hole
that will heal in a couple of days. During the time the
tube is in your breast and when the hole is healing, you
should not lift heavy things or otherwise strain the muscle
under your breast.
If the fluid from the cyst was tested, you can call your
doctor in a few days to get the results. Ask the doctor
what other steps you should take and when you need to come
back for a checkup.
What are the benefits of this procedure?
The cyst may stop causing you discomfort. The doctor will
be able to make a more accurate diagnosis about the cyst.
It will be easier to check your breast when the cyst is
gone.
What are the risks associated with this procedure?
- A local anesthesia may not numb the area quite enough
and you may feel some minor discomfort. Also, in rare
cases, you may have an allergic reaction to the drug
used in this type of anesthesia.
- A lumpy scar called a keloid could form in the area of
the cut.
- Infection and/or bleeding may occur at the site.
You should ask your doctor how these risks apply to you.
When should I call the doctor?
Call the doctor immediately if:
- You have a lot of drainage from the puncture site.
- You develop a fever.
Call the doctor during office hours if:
- You have questions about the procedure or its result.
- You want to make another appointment.
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