The Submammary-Evert (Sub-E) Technique for Excision of Benign Breast Lumps in Underdeveloped and Developing Countries - A Case Series

Abstract

The Submammary-Evert (Sub-E) technique is a novel technique for the excision of one or multiple benign breast lumps. It may be performed by surgical trainees and general surgeons. It is best suited for deep seated, medium to large breast lumps. It enables the lump or lumps to be excised through one hidden inframammary scar. As the approach is through the avascular submammary plane, blood loss is minimised. Unlike the endoscopic or percutaneous vacuum assisted biopsy, this procedure is easy to learn with no additional instruments required; thus minimising cost. This makes it feasible to be performed in underdeveloped and developing countries. We describe a series of ten women (age 18-35 years old) with one or multiple breast lumps (1-5 breast lumps) who underwent this procedure. The size of the lumps measured 1-13 cm. All lumps measuring a minimum of 3 cm were located at the upper half or retroareolar region. The duration of surgery for excision of a lump was 50-100 minutes. The surgery to remove 5 lumps took the longest time of 125 minutes. There were no intra or post-operative complications.