What Are the Treatments for Seroma Formation in Dogs?

A seroma is a collection of fluid in a "dead" or empty space in body tissue. It can occur as a complication following surgery, trauma or even an injection. It appears as a bulge or swelling under the skin near the trauma site and is filled with serum, which is the clear liquid part of blood when the solid parts -- red cells, white cells and clotting agents -- are filtered out by the surrounding tissue. Most seromas can be treated successfully at home, and many require no treatment at all.

  1. Prevention

    • Use of a special lysine-derived urethane surgical adhesive to close an incision has been reported to lessen the chance of a seroma forming, according to Gilbert et al. in the journal Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, but this is up to the surgeon.
      In the postoperative or post-injury period (usually 7 to 10 days), the owner or handler should restrict the dog's activity. This means leash walking at a slow pace and no high-energy play or work. If there is an abdominal incision, such as after a spay, use extra care on stairs and steps. Take them slowly, since dogs usually prefer to take them at a run and this can put stress on the traumatized area.

    Behavior

    • Watch for licking of the incision or chewing at the stitches. This is a normal response to itching of the healing incision and the regrowth of hair in the shaved area, but it can cause irritation, resulting in seroma formation or even infection.
      If necessary, apply an E-collar, which is a lightweight plastic cone resembling a lampshade fastened around the dog's neck. This allows the dog to eat and drink, but prevents her from reaching the incision.

    Home Treatment

    • Inspect the incision at least daily and clean the incision site gently with a hydrogen peroxide wipe to remove any fluid weeping from the incision.
      According to C. J. Puotinen, in the March 2007 issue of the Whole Dog Journal, ice packs benefit acute injuries, which would include surgery. She recommends wrapping a cold pack, such as a bag of frozen peas, in a towel and applying it for 10 to 15 minutes, then waiting two hours to reapply it. Check with the surgeon before doing this, and use it only if the dog allows it, since if she struggles it could do more harm than good.

    Professional Treatment

    • A seroma will resolve frequently without treatment, as the body reabsorbs the fluid. If it does not decrease in size or shows any signs of infection (hardness, redness or increased heat), take the dog back to the veterinarian for evaluation. The seroma may need to be emptied with a syringe. In severe or recurrent cases, a drain may be placed into the dead space to lead the fluid out of the body. Always consult an experienced veterinarian regarding the health and treatment of your pet and follow instructions carefully.