Elastofibroma dorsi (ED) is a
tumor that develops in the space between the lower angle of the scapula and the posterior thoracic wall. Due to the rarity of this type of
tumor, the number of reported consecutive series is limited. Surgical excision, usually recommended for symptomatic cases to confirm diagnosis and relieve symptoms, has been associated with a high complication rate. To analyze the clinical characteristics and outcomes of surgical treatment, we retrospectively reviewed 20 consecutive cases of surgically resected ED. Of the 20 patients, 14 (70%) exhibited preoperative symptoms associated with the
tumor. The mean diameter of the resected
tumors averaged 72 mm (range, 45-110 mm). The surgical outcomes were satisfactory, except for the development of
hematoma or
seroma in 9 cases (43%), 8 of which achieved a complete resolution with
conservative treatment. Age,
hypertension, the presence of preoperative
tumor-related symptoms and intraoperative
bleeding were not found to be significantly associated with the incidence of
hematoma. However,
tumor diameter and the duration of postoperative drainage were significantly associated with occurrence of
hematoma (P=0.02 and P=0.01, respectively). Surgical resection should only be recommended for symptomatic patients, due to the high incidence of postoperative complications. To prevent the development of postoperative
hematoma or
seroma, careful observation of the
wound, with
suction drainage for >7 days and additional
surgical procedures to facilitate adhesion of the
wound margins, are recommended.