Intermediate
Technical
In the Industry Vocabulary Test
seroma
Pronunciation: suh-ROH-mah
Post-operative complication involving fluid accumulation in tissue spaces where surgery was performed.
Full Definition
A seroma is a pocket of clear serous fluid that collects in a tissue space following surgery, particularly common after procedures involving extensive tissue dissection such as abdominoplasty, mastectomy, or large-volume liposuction. Seromas can delay healing and may require aspiration or drainage if they persist or become symptomatic. Medical documentation should note seroma location, size, and treatment approach, as recurrent seromas may indicate the need for surgical drainage or additional intervention.
Usage
Usage note: Distinguish clearly from hematoma (blood collection) in documentation.
In Context
- "A small seroma developed at the lateral incision site following abdominoplasty." — Post-operative complication note
- "The persistent seroma required ultrasound-guided aspiration at two weeks post-op." — Follow-up treatment record
Also known as
fluid collection
serous fluid accumulation
Don't confuse with
hematoma
abscess
lymphocele